Kishtwar, J&K – In a significant push toward strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s power infrastructure, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ongoing works and operational readiness of two key hydroelectric projects — the 850 MW Rattle Hydroelectric Power Project and the 390 MW Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Power Station in Kishtwar district.
Accompanied by H. Rajesh Prasad, Principal Secretary of the Power Development Department, Rahul Yadav, Managing Director of JKPDCL, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Rajesh Kumar Shavan, and senior civil and project officials, the Chief Secretary’s visit underlined the administration’s focus on energy development in the region.
Detailed Review at Rattle Project Site
At the Rattle Hydroelectric Power Project, located in the Drabshalla Block, the Chief Secretary was given a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the current progress and operational roadmap for the project. He undertook a physical inspection of several key construction zones, including the Power Intake Structure, Coffer Dam, Underground Powerhouse Complex, and the Tail Raised Tunnel.
Dulloo directed the project authorities to accelerate the pace of work to ensure timely completion, while also stressing the importance of maintaining high quality standards. He emphasized the need to proactively resolve operational hurdles and maintain seamless coordination among implementing agencies.
Operational Assessment of Dul Hasti Project
Following his visit to Rattle, the Chief Secretary inspected the Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Power Station, where he interacted with the project officials to assess its operational efficiency. He reviewed key performance metrics and issued directives for performance optimization, urging officials to address all pending technical and administrative issues without delay.
Strategic Meeting with Power Stakeholders
Later in the day, Dulloo chaired a strategic meeting involving senior officers of NHPC, Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited (CVPPL), and Heads of Projects (HOPs) from various hydroelectric plants across Kishtwar. The discussion focused on inter-agency coordination, resource planning, and resolving issues that have hindered smooth execution in the past.
“Hydropower development is not only crucial for meeting our energy demands but also for the economic upliftment of the region. Timely execution with quality and accountability is non-negotiable,” the Chief Secretary stated during the meeting.
A Vision for Energy Security
The Rattle and Dul Hasti projects are integral to Jammu and Kashmir’s long-term power strategy, envisioned to transform the Union Territory into a power-surplus region. With massive potential in hydroelectric energy, the Chenab Valley has been earmarked as a future energy hub by both the UT and Central governments.
