Security cover strengthened for hydro projects in Kishtwar

In the wake of India putting the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in abeyance, security at hydropower projects built or under construction on the Chenab river in Kishtwar district has been significantly strengthened.

At one of the major hydroelectric dams in the district — the Pakal Dul project — the Jammu and Kashmir Police have enhanced security measures to prevent any anti-national elements from approaching the site.

Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan, along with Senior Superintendent of Police Naresh Singh, conducted an extensive visit to the project site to assess the on-ground security situation.

During the visit, Shavan reviewed the existing security arrangements and stressed the importance of maintaining a robust security framework around the project. He directed project authorities to immediately install additional CCTV cameras across key areas of the site to enhance surveillance and bolster safety measures.

In addition to the security review, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the ongoing construction work, emphasising the need for timely execution and strict adherence to quality standards.

Kishtwar district is home to several under-construction and operational hydropower projects. The region has also witnessed several encounters and sightings of terrorists in recent months. Earlier this month, three Pakistani terrorists were killed in the district.

The Pakal Dul project, with a capacity of 1,000 MW, is one of the major hydropower projects being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 8,112.12 crore. Another major project, Kiru, will have a capacity of 624 MW and is being built at a cost of Rs 4,285.59 crore.

The 850 MW Ratle project has been revived as a joint venture between the Centre and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, the existing Dulhasti Power Station has an installed capacity of 390 MW, while the upcoming Dulhasti II Hydroelectric Project will add 260 MW to the grid. All of these projects are located in Kishtwar district.

In November 2023, terrorists attempted to damage the Dulhasti dam by planting a 2.5 kg improvised explosive device (IED) near the site. The bomb was detected and successfully defused by security forces.

Inspector General of Police Bhim Sen Tuti and Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar visited Kishtwar on April 24, during which safeguarding hydropower projects in the region was a key topic of discussion.