Kishtwar: In a significant achievement for the 850 MW Ratle Hydro Electric Project in Jammu & Kashmir, the diversion of the mighty Chenab river through diversion tunnels at Drabshalla in Kishtwar district took place at 11:30 A.M. on January 27, 2024. This pivotal step marks the commencement of isolation of the dam area at the riverbed, facilitating the critical activities of excavation and dam construction. The river diversion is a crucial milestone that is expected to expedite project construction activities and minimize delays, aligning with the project’s commitment to achieving its scheduled commissioning date of May 2026.
The River Diversion ceremony was inaugurated by CMD, NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) Shri R.K. Vishnoi and witnessed by Principal Secretary (PDD), Government of J&K, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad; Chairman, RHPCL (Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited), Shri I. D. Dayal; MD, JKSPDC (Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation), Shri Pankaj Mangotra; Directors of NHPC; CEO, RHPCL, Sh. A.K. Nauriyal, and other officials from NHPC and the Government of J&K.
The Ratle Project is a joint venture between NHPC Limited and the Government of J&K, with shareholding of 51:49 percent, respectively. Positioned on the Chenab River in Kishtwar District of Jammu & Kashmir, the Ratle Hydro Electric Project boasts an installed capacity of 850 MW. The Government of India sanctioned the project in January 2021 through the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, with a total cost of Rs. 5281.94 crores.
This achievement underscores the dedication and collaboration between NHPC, the Government of J&K, and all stakeholders involved in the Ratle Hydro Electric Project. The successful river diversion is a crucial step forward in harnessing the abundant hydroelectric potential of the region, contributing to the sustainable development of Jammu & Kashmir and the nation at large.