Sawalkote hydroelectric project

The long-stalled Sawalkote hydroelectric project (1,865 MW) on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir has returned to the centre of India’s hydropower strategy. The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) is set to review the project for environmental clearance, according to official documents.

Treaty Context

The move comes after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in April 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack. Under the treaty, the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab — were reserved for Pakistan’s use. With the treaty now in abeyance, India has fast-tracked projects to tap their hydro potential, placing Sawalkote as a strategic priority.

Clearances and Exemptions

On July 10, 2025, less than three months after the IWT suspension, the Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) granted an exemption from detailed forest studies at the request of the Ministries of Power and Home Affairs. This clearance is crucial since the project requires diversion of 846 hectares of forest land across Udhampur, Mahore, Batote, and Ramban.

History of Delays

First conceived in 1984, the Sawalkote project has faced repeated delays due to Centre-state tussles and clearance hurdles. Multiple tenders for different project components have now been floated, signalling the government’s intent to expedite work.

Strategic Importance

If completed, Sawalkote would become one of the largest hydro projects on a western river, strengthening India’s position on the Chenab and reducing Pakistan’s exclusive control over these waters under the erstwhile treaty regime.