The 850-MW Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, is facing renewed challenges that threaten to halt construction. Allegations of political interference and demands for local preferences have resurfaced, casting a shadow over the project's progress.
This is not the first time the Ratle project has encountered obstacles. A recent review by the Union Government highlighted that the project, currently at 25.9% completion, has suffered repeated setbacks. These include flooding in diversion tunnels during monsoons, restrictions on blasting near residential areas, labor strikes, and unresolved land disputes.
Adding to these woes, J&K National Conference MP Ahmad Kichloo recently raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha, alleging that hydro project developers are failing to meet their obligations to employ local people. He demanded an inquiry into the violations of local employment agreements and rehabilitation issues. Kichloo specifically mentioned the four hydro projects being built on the Chenab River: Pakal Dul, Ratle, Kiru, and Kwar. He stated that hydro-power project developers in Jammu and Kashmir are violating the agreed terms by not employing local people.
The Centre has been monitoring hydropower projects closely through mechanisms like Central Electricity Authority (CEA)-led review sessions and real-time tracking on the eSamikSha portal. The government has also outlined a tiered free-power structure for upcoming projects. Ratle will initially provide 1% free power, increasing annually to 12% by the 12th year. J&K will also have the first right to refuse to purchase up to 49% of power from Ratle.
Despite these efforts, delays persist in several key projects in the Chenab basin, including Pakaldul, Ratle, Kiru and Kwar. These delays stem from various issues, including litigation, environmental approvals, labor strikes, weather-related disruptions, and technical setbacks. Other projects, such as Kwar, have faced setbacks due to delayed finalization of hydro-mechanical and electro-mechanical contracts, along with sporadic labor issues. Kiru has experienced delays due to road blockages caused by heavy rainfall, union strikes, and delays in crane delivery amid global shipping disruptions. Pakaldul has been hampered by a prolonged court case, reduced manpower during the COVID-19 phase, slope failure at the Tunnel Boring Machine entry point, and protests by Project Affected Families (PAFs).
The Ministry of Power has emphasized the importance of these hydropower projects for strengthening J&K's power supply, especially during the harsh winter months. The Union Territory currently has a commissioned hydropower capacity of 3,360 MW, with 3,052 MW under construction and 2,449 MW in various planning stages, creating a total portfolio of over 8,800 MW.
The 1,856 MW Sawalkote Mega Project is awaiting Stage-II Forest Clearance. Once operational, the project is expected to strengthen J&K's power supply, particularly during harsh winters. Two MoUs with JKSPDC were signed in 2021.
The challenges facing the Ratle project highlight the complexities of large-scale infrastructure development in the region. Balancing national interests with local concerns, navigating regulatory hurdles, and addressing unforeseen disruptions remain critical for the successful completion of these vital projects.
