Union Government Approves Long-Delayed 1,856 MW Sawalkote Hydropower Project on Chenab.

The Union government has approved the environmental clearance for the 1,856 MW Sawalkote hydropower project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, ending nearly a decade of uncertainty surrounding the project. The approval comes amid ongoing tensions related to the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan.

Stalled for at least nine years, the Sawalkote project is expected to significantly enhance hydropower capacity in the region, boosting local energy production.

An official confirmed that the final approval was granted on October 9 by the Expert Environmental Appraisal Committee (EAC) during its 40th meeting.