Published: 10 October 2025The HinduEconomy
Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project Gets Fresh Environmental Clearance: 1,856 MW on Chenab
The Environment Ministry's Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) recommended prior environmental clearance to the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River in Ramban district, Jammu & Kashmir. The ₹31,380 crore project by NHPC will have 1,856 MW capacity, with total design energy of 7,533.90 million units.
The project features a 192.5-metre-high roller-compacted concrete dam — among India's tallest. First proposed in 1984, it remained dormant for nearly four decades due to environmental and technical delays. The clearance gained momentum after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in 2025. The project data lists 112 affected villages and 1,477 affected families.
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What is the capacity of the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project?
Explanation · Correct answer ASawalkote Hydroelectric Project is planned on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. NHPC lists its installed capacity as 1,856 MW, made up of 8 units of 225 MW and 1 unit of 56 MW.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on Chenab River?
The **Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River in Ramban district, J&K**, received fresh environmental clearance in 2025. It is a **₹31,380 crore NHPC project** with 1,856 MW capacity, generating approximately 8,000 million units annually with a 192.5-metre roller-compacted concrete dam.
Why was Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project cleared after decades of delay?
The Sawalkote project was **first proposed in 1984 but remained dormant for nearly four decades** due to environmental and technical delays. The fresh environmental clearance in 2025 gained momentum after **India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty**, which had previously limited India's hydropower development on the Chenab.
What is the height of the dam at Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project?
The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project features a **192.5-metre-high roller-compacted concrete dam** — among India's tallest dams. The project will generate approximately 8,000 million units of electricity annually from its 1,856 MW installed capacity.
What is the displacement impact of Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project?
The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project will **affect 13 villages, leading to displacement of around 1,500 families.** This human cost must be managed through proper rehabilitation and resettlement packages as part of the environmental clearance conditions for the ₹31,380 crore NHPC project.
What is NHPC's role in India's hydropower sector?
**NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation)** is India's premier hydropower developer, responsible for large projects like Sawalkote (1,856 MW). NHPC develops, constructs, and operates hydroelectric projects across India, contributing significantly to India's renewable energy targets and the goal of 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030.
