India has directed accelerated sediment removal at the Salal Power Project in Jammu and Kashmir to improve water use efficiency after the Indus Waters Treaty was kept in abeyance. The move is linked to wider efforts to maximise the use of the Chenab and other western rivers for domestic hydropower and irrigation needs. The Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs also reviewed major hydel projects in Kishtwar and Reasi districts during a two-day visit.
Salal Reservoir Operation
The Salal Power Project is located on the Chenab river in Reasi district and is operated by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation. The reservoir has accumulated silt over time, reducing storage and operational efficiency. The direction to expedite sediment removal is intended to restore capacity and improve optimal utilisation of water resources.
Link With Indus Waters Treaty
The decision comes after the Indus Waters Treaty was placed in abeyance last year. The step reflects India’s intent to use the waters of the Chenab and Indus for its own developmental needs. In strategic terms, sediment management and reservoir optimisation have become more important for hydropower generation and water security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Ratle Hydroelectric Project Review
The Union Minister also visited the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, where he reviewed the progress of works and laid the foundation stone for dam concreting. The project was approved in 2021 at a cost of ₹5,281.94 crore and is scheduled for commissioning in May this year. The project team was asked to complete the work in a time-bound manner.
Employment And Project Security
During the visit, the minister said only verified and law-abiding workers should be engaged in ongoing hydel projects in Kishtwar. He stressed that worker details would be checked through institutions before employment. The visit also covered other NHPC projects in Reasi, Ramban, and Kishtwar, amid concerns over local pressure and interference faced by contractors and workers.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026