Overview
- Union minister Manohar Lal reviewed NHPC projects across Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar, including an aerial inspection of the 1,856 MW Sawalkot scheme.
- He directed NHPC to accelerate sediment removal at the Salal reservoir on the Chenab to maximise use of water resources.
- At Kishtwar’s Ratle project, he laid the foundation stone for dam concreting and urged strict quality control and on‑time delivery.
- Officials reiterated Ratle’s approved cost of ₹5,281.94 crore and the target to commission the project in May 2026.
- He said only verified, law‑abiding workers will be employed on the hydel sites, as December reports detailed contractor strain at Ratle with Megha Engineering citing threats and interference.