Ratle Hydroelectric Project

A landslide recently struck the Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar, resulting in the injury of five persons. The project, which is crucial for power generation in Jammu and Kashmir, has been under construction and faces challenges due to its location in a seismically active and mountainous region.

About the Ratle Hydroelectric Project:

The Ratle Hydroelectric Project is an 850 MW run-of-river hydroelectric power plant under construction in Kishtwar District, Jammu and Kashmir. Here are the key details about the project:

Key Features:

• Capacity: The project will generate 850 MW of electricity.

• Location: It is situated on the Chenab River, a significant waterway in the region.

• Type: The project is a run-of-river scheme, which means it will generate electricity using the natural flow of the river, without requiring large reservoirs.

Development:

• The project is being developed by the Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation (RHPCL), a joint venture between the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) and NHPC Ltd. (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation), a state-owned company.

  • Ownership: NHPC holds 51% of the equity, while JKSPDC holds the remaining 49%.

Infrastructure:

• The project features a 133-meter tall concrete gravity dam and a 194.8-meter long dam structure.

• Diversion Dam: In addition to the main dam, a diversion dam will direct water to the power generation unit.

• Underground Powerhouse: An underground powerhouse (168m x 24.5m x 49m) will house:

  • Four 205 MW Francis turbine-generating units

  • One 30 MW auxiliary turbine-generating unit

Electricity Generation:

• The project is expected to generate 3,137 GWh of electricity annually, which will contribute significantly to the region's power supply.

Geopolitical Concerns:

• Indus Waters Treaty (1960): Pakistan has raised concerns over the Ratle project, claiming that it violates the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, which governs the use of water from the Indus River system shared by India and Pakistan. The treaty allocates water from six rivers (including the Chenab River) to Pakistan, and Pakistan fears that the construction of this dam could affect its share of water.

Conclusion:

The Ratle Hydroelectric Project holds immense potential to contribute to India's power generation, particularly in the Jammu and Kashmir region, which faces energy challenges. However, the recent landslide and ongoing concerns regarding its compliance with the Indus Waters Treaty reflect the complex challenges surrounding the project