Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the construction work for the 2400 MW Kiru hydroelectric project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir. The project holds strategic importance for meeting the region’s power requirements.
Key Features
- Run-of-river project on Chenab in Kishtwar district
- Estimated cost: Rs 4,287 crore
- Will generate over 624 MW of electricity
- Joint venture between NHPC (49%), JKSPDC (49%) & PTC (2%)
- Scheduled for completion by July 2025
Significance
- Will help provide power for economic development in J&K
- Clean, renewable source of energy
- Will boost infrastructure & connectivity in local areas
Addressing Energy Needs
The project will help address J&K’s energy needs in an eco-friendly manner. With assured power supply, growth of small scale industries in the region will be bolstered. Overall the living standards of locals are also expected to improve.
Boosting Connectivity & Infrastructure
Areas around the project site will also benefit from improved means of transportation and infrastructure facilities. This includes upgrading of road network, bridges etc. ultimately resulting in better connectivity.
Challenges
While the strategic project will be beneficial, potential corruption as alleged recently poses concern regarding transparency, quality and accountability. Strict, timely monitoring is vital.
Environmental Considerations
Impact on River Ecology
- Changes in water flow/velocity patterns
- Potential barriers for fish migration
- Threats to aquatic biodiversity
Land Acquisition Impacts
- Displacement and rehabilitation of affected families
- Impact on wildlife habitats nearby
Other Environmental Risks
- Soil erosion at project site
- Increased risk of landslides due to tunneling/reservoir filling
- Water pollution from construction activities
Climate Change Implications
- Impact of extreme weather events/changing precipitation
- Glacier lake outburst flood risks
Sustainability Aspects
- Ensuring minimum required river flows (environmental flows)
- Using suitable sediment management strategies
- Maintaining fish passages/ladders
EIA & SIA Clearances
- Strict adherence to clearance conditions mandatory
- Oversight on compliance needed by monitoring agencies
Local Protests
- Concerns over loss of livelihoods, lands
- Demands for better rehabilitation packages
- Apprehensions about outsider influx diluting cultural identity
- Worries related to environmental damage, biodiversity loss
Impact of Modi’s Visit
- High-level central government backing for the strategic project
- Builds confidence regarding timely execution
- Boosts overall profile and visibility of J&K’s development
- Morale-uplift for people and agencies involved
Economic Significance
- Job creation during construction phase
- Revenue generation through power sales
- Boost to tourism from enhanced connectivity
- Knock-on effects across manufacturing, services sector
Technical Parameters
Dam and Reservoir
- 60m tall concrete gravity dam
- Reservoir storage capacity of 8.8 Million Cubic Meters
Head Race Tunnel
- 12.4 km long tunnel to channel water to power house
- Horseshoe shaped, 10m diameter tunnel
- Lined with concrete for stability
Power Generation
- 4 units of 200 MW Francis turbine operated generators
- Will generate over 9,000 MU of electricity annually
- Power house located 8 km downstream of main dam
Transmission Infrastructure
- 400kV switchyard facility at powerhouse
- Transmission system to evacuate power
- Connecting grid substations at Kishtwar & Dulhasti
The commencement of Kiru project marks an important milestone in harnessing J&K’s immense hydroelectric potential. By supplying clean energy and driving infrastructure growth, the project is slated to deliver far-reaching dividends if executed responsibly.
