India has approved the Sawalkot Power Project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. This 1856 MW project is being seen as a move to give Pakistan a jolt on the water front.
Water Strike: Sending a b message to Pakistan, India has approved the Sawalkot Power Project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. This 1856 MW power project, which has been pending for decades, is now set to materialize. The Indian government has invited international tenders for it, with a deadline of September 10th. This project will not only boost energy production but also increase strategic pressure on Pakistan.
Green Light for Sawalkot Power Project
The Government of India has officially approved the Sawalkot Hydro Electric Project proposed on the Chenab River in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir. The government has invited international tenders for its construction. The last date for submitting online bids for this ambitious project with a capacity of 1856 MW has been set as September 10, 2025.
Regaining Momentum After Four Decades of Delay
The Sawalkot Power Project had been stalled for the past four decades due to administrative, environmental, and political obstacles. Pakistan's objections and international pressures also played a role in delaying the project. However, due to changes in India's strategic policies in recent times, this project has now been given renewed impetus.
Strategy for Water Storage on the Chenab River
This project will be built on the Chenab River, which is considered an important stream for water sharing between India and Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty. According to experts, this project will increase India's water storage capacity and control the flow of water towards Pakistan. This will enable India to make maximum use of its share of water.
Indus Waters Treaty and India's Changing Strategy
After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made it clear that "water and blood cannot flow together." After this, India took steps towards suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. The effect of this policy change is now clearly visible.
Why is the Sawalkot Project Special?
- Energy Production: This project, with a huge energy capacity of 1856 MW, will help in overcoming the energy crisis in Jammu and Kashmir and surrounding areas.
- Strategic Control: India will get better control over its share of water resources, which will increase pressure on Pakistan.
- Local Development: Employment and development opportunities will also be created at the regional level through this project.
Pakistan's Reaction and Potential Impact
It is natural for Pakistan's concerns to increase with this step by India. The tributaries of the Indus River – Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Jhelum and Chenab – are considered lifelines for both India and Pakistan. India's Sawalkot Project will also affect Pakistan's dependence on the water flow of these rivers.
The Indian government has invited tenders from international companies. Interested companies can submit online bids by September 10th. Once the tender process is completed, the construction work of the project is likely to start soon.
