The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has recently given its approval to the 540-megawatt Kwar hydroelectric project situated on the Chenab River in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. This news development brings into focus the role and importance of such projects in promoting sustainable energy solutions.
The Kwar Project: An Overview
The Kwar project is part of the larger Indus basin that includes at least four other projects, namely, the 1,000 MWs Pakal Dul hydroelectric project and the 624 MWs run-of-the-river Kiru hydroelectric project. These projects stem from the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) enacted in 1960 between India and Pakistan, where the two nations agreed to share the waters of six rivers flowing from India to Pakistan.
India owns rights for Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi, which are the eastern rivers, while Pakistan holds rights for Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus, the western rivers. The Kwar project will be managed by the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Ltd (CVPPL), a partnership between NHPC Ltd and J&K’s State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC).
The project will generate an approximate 1975.54 million units, in what’s known as a 90% dependable year. It’s also predicted to provide jobs to around 2,500 people.
The Chenab River: Key Features and Significance
Chenab River has its origins in the upper Himalayas in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. It forms through the merging of Chandra and Bhaga rivers, near Tandi. Notably, the Chandra River originates from glaciers east of the Bara-lacha la pass, while the Bhaga River begins from Surya taal lake located west of the same pass.
The river travels through Jammu and Kashmir’s Jammu region before flowing into Punjab, Pakistan, and eventually joining the Indus River. The Chenab River has been harnessed for several significant projects, including the Ratle Hydro Electric Project, Salal Dam, Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Plant, Pakal Dul Dam, and Kiru Hydroelectric Project.
Indus River System and UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
The Indus river system plays a crucial role in regional water sharing agreements and hydroelectric power generation. Several relevant questions about this river system have appeared in past years’ UPSC Civil Services Exams. For instance, a question appeared in one of the previous exams: Which river amongst Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, or Sutlej joins the Indus directly? The answer is Sutlej. Another common question pertains to rivers passing through Himachal Pradesh. The correct answer includes Beas, Chenab, Ravi, Satluj, and Yamuna.
These questions highlight the importance of understanding the geography and river systems not just for ecological purposes but also for academic and competitive examination preparation.
