India is stepping up the pace on four critical hydropower projects along the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing its dual focus on energy security and strategic water management.
Clear timelines have been set for the commissioning and completion of these projects. The Pakal Dul and Kiru hydropower plants are targeted for commissioning by December 2026, while the Kwar project is slated for completion by March 2028. Construction activity at the Ratle hydropower project has also been directed to move on an accelerated track.
Among these, Pakal Dul holds particular significance as India’s first storage-based hydropower project on a western river that flows into Pakistan. With an installed capacity of 1,000 MW and a dam height of 167 m, the project enables regulated water storage and controlled release. Kiru and Kwar, designed as run-of-the-river projects, along with the 850 MW Ratle project—featuring a 133 m high dam—form a cascading hydropower system on the Chenab, strengthening India’s operational control over the river’s flow.
The push for faster execution follows high-level reviews of project progress, with a strong emphasis on adherence to revised schedules. Once operational, these projects—along with the proposed Dulhasti Stage-2—are expected to significantly boost hydropower capacity in the region while improving grid stability in northern India.
Beyond power generation, the coordinated development of these dams underscores the Centre’s intent to optimise river utilisation within existing international frameworks, while addressing long-term energy and infrastructure priorities in Jammu and Kashmir.