Posted on January 5, 2026
Jammu, Jan 4: Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar Sunday, directed NHPC officials to expedite the sediment removal operations of the Salal reservoir.
Earlier, Khattar, accompanied by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, arrived in Jammu on Sunday on a 2-day inspection visit.
The two-day visit includes inspections of projects located in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
On day one of his visit, Khattar visited Salal, Sawalkot and Ratle power projects. Immediately after his arrival, Bhupendra Gupta, CMD, NHPC, briefed the Union Power Minister on the progress of various NHPC hydroelectric projects located in Jammu and Kashmir.
During his visit to NHPC’s Salal power project, he was apprised of the ongoing works.
Salal Power Station, located on the Chenab river in Reasi district, is undertaking sediment removal works following the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), aimed at removing accumulated silt and maximising optimal utilisation of water resources.
During the visit to the Salal power station, the Minister also undertook a plantation drive within the power station premises, underscoring the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Khattar also held discussions with the local administration and senior officials of various concerned departments to ensure coordinated efforts for the timely execution of works.
Enroute to Kishtwar, Manohar Lal conducted an aerial inspection of the Sawalkot hydroelectric project of 1856 MW.
Upon arrival in Kishtwar, he visited the Ratle hydroelectric project, where he laid the foundation stone for the dam concreting works and encouraged the project team to complete the works in an effective and time-bound manner.
