Jammu, Jan 5 (JKNS): Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday asserted that Pakistan’s objections to hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir hold no relevance, stating that India will proceed with all power projects strictly in national interest.
The Union Minister made these remarks while launching the dam concreting works of the Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar, marking the beginning of his two-day visit to the Union Territory. He urged engineers and executing agencies to ensure timely and efficient completion of the project.
Speaking to reporters, as per news agency JKNS Manohar Lal Khattar said the Ratle project had faced a delay of more than two years due to various constraints, but added that work has now picked up pace. Once completed, he said, the 800 MW project will significantly enhance power availability in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.
Emphasising inclusive development, the Minister said local residents must be given priority in employment opportunities related to the project, describing them as the primary stakeholders.
On Pakistan’s repeated objections to projects such as Dul Hasti, Khattar said India undertakes such infrastructure works solely for its own developmental needs and that Pakistan has no role or authority to question them. He made it clear that no objection from across the border would be entertained.
Replying to a question on the Indus Waters Treaty and recent fast-tracking of projects, Khattar said the treaty has been kept in abeyance, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clear policy stance. He said the waters of the Chenab and Indus rivers will now be utilised to meet domestic requirements and serve the interests of India’s people.
The Union Minister also stressed strict vigilance at project sites, stating that individuals with unlawful backgrounds would not be allowed to work on hydropower projects in Kishtwar.
Regarding reports of alleged Over Ground Workers (OGWs) being spotted at project locations along with local leaders, Khattar said the matter would be looked into. However, he maintained that such issues are local in nature and do not warrant an NIA probe at this stage.
Earlier, Khattar arrived in Jammu along with Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal to review NHPC-managed hydroelectric projects in the UT. NHPC CMD Bhupendra Gupta briefed him on the status of ongoing works. The Minister’s itinerary includes inspections in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
During the day, Khattar also visited the Salal Hydroelectric Project in Reasi, where he reviewed ongoing works and directed officials to expedite sediment removal from the reservoir to optimise water utilisation. He also participated in a plantation drive at the project site, underscoring the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
En route to Kishtwar, the Minister carried out an aerial inspection of the 1856 MW Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project.
Later, he attended a Hindu Sammelan at the Mahadev Temple in Reasi as part of the RSS centenary celebrations, where he spoke on nationalism, service and the ideology of “nation first.”
Upon reaching Kishtwar, Khattar formally laid the foundation stone for dam concreting works of the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, reiterating the Centre’s commitment to strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s power infrastructure. (JKNS)
