In a momentous achievement, the Ratle Hydro Electric Project in Jammu & Kashmir reached a significant milestone with the successful diversion of the mighty Chenab river through diversion tunnels at Drabshalla in the Kishtwar district. This crucial event took place at 11:30 A.M. on January 27, 2024, setting the stage for the next phase of construction at the 850 MW hydroelectric facility.
The river diversion holds paramount importance as it paves the way for isolating the dam area at the riverbed, facilitating the commencement of critical activities such as excavation and dam construction. By expediting these project construction tasks, the river diversion aims to minimize delays and align with the ambitious goal of commissioning the Ratle Hydro Electric Project by May 2026.
The momentous River Diversion ceremony was inaugurated by Shri R.K. Vishnoi, the Chairman and Managing Director of NHPC. The event was graced by the presence of Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, Principal Secretary (PDD), Government of J&K; Shri I. D. Dayal, Chairman of RHPCL; Shri Pankaj Mangotra, Managing Director of JKSPDC; along with Directors of NHPC, CEO of RHPCL, Sh. A.K. Nauriyal, and other officials from NHPC and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.
The Ratle Project is a collaborative effort undertaken by Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (RHPCL), a Joint Venture between NHPC Limited and the Government of J&K, with a shareholding ratio of 51:49 percent, respectively. Positioned on the Chenab River in the Kishtwar District of Jammu & Kashmir, the project boasts an installed capacity of 850 MW.
The Government of India, recognizing the significance of this venture, accorded its approval through the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs in January 2021. The sanctioned project cost stands at Rs. 5281.94 crores, underscoring the commitment to harnessing hydroelectric power and contributing to the energy landscape of the region.
With the successful river diversion, the Ratle Hydro Electric Project moves one step closer to realizing its potential as a major player in the renewable energy sector, demonstrating the synergy between government entities and private enterprises for the greater good. As construction progresses, the project remains on track to meet its scheduled commissioning date, bringing forth a new era of sustainable energy for Jammu & Kashmir.