J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo Directs Fast-Tracking of Ratle and Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Projects
Kishtwar, May 16, 2025 — In a high-level review of Jammu and Kashmir’s critical energy infrastructure, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo visited Kishtwar on Thursday to assess the progress of two key hydroelectric projects—the 850 MW Ratle Hydroelectric Project and the 390 MW Dul Hasti Power Station.
The visit comes amid rising emphasis on energy self-sufficiency and infrastructure development in the Union Territory. The projects, located along the Chenab River basin, are seen as vital to meeting Jammu and Kashmir’s growing energy demands and boosting employment and development in the region.
Ratle Project: A Push for Timely Completion
At the Ratle hydroelectric project, situated in the Drabshalla block of Kishtwar, Dulloo conducted an on-site review of ongoing construction activities. Officials from the Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited (CVPPL) briefed the chief secretary on the current implementation status of the megaproject.
During the visit, Dulloo inspected critical components including:
- The power intake structure
- The coffer dam
- The underground powerhouse complex
- The tail raised tunnel
He expressed concern over the pace of the work and directed officials to accelerate construction activities. Emphasizing the strategic and economic importance of the project, he stressed the need to maintain both quality standards and timelines.
Dul Hasti: Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Dulloo also visited the operational Dul Hasti hydroelectric project, which contributes significantly to the region's power generation. While interacting with project engineers and NHPC personnel on-site, he reviewed its operational efficiency and sought updates on maintenance, capacity utilization, and existing bottlenecks.
He instructed officials to address pending issues without delay and ensure that the plant continues to function at optimal capacity. Suggestions were made to implement modern monitoring systems and to strengthen the overall power distribution network connected to the project.
High-Level Meeting with NHPC and CVPPL
Later in the day, the Chief Secretary chaired a review meeting with top officials from National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited (CVPPL). The focus of the discussion remained on:
- Expediting construction at Ratle
- Improving efficiency at Dul Hasti
- Coordinating inter-agency responsibilities
- Ensuring environmental compliance and safety protocols
Dulloo emphasized the importance of interdepartmental synergy to overcome logistical and administrative hurdles. He also underlined the importance of community engagement, ensuring that local populations benefit from the ongoing infrastructure development.
Strategic Importance of Hydropower in J&K
Hydroelectric power is a cornerstone of Jammu and Kashmir’s long-term energy policy. The Ratle project, once completed, is expected to significantly enhance the power supply to the UT and neighbouring states. Both Ratle and Dul Hasti are key components of the Chenab Valley power corridor, which holds the potential to make J&K a power-surplus region.
According to officials, the Ratle project alone could contribute over 3,000 million units (MU) of electricity annually. In a region marked by difficult terrain and limited industrial activity, these projects are expected to generate jobs, promote infrastructure development, and support local economies.
Government's Focus on Infrastructure and Energy Security
Dulloo’s visit highlights the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s commitment to transforming infrastructure and ensuring energy security. The Chief Secretary reiterated the Lieutenant Governor’s vision of fast-tracking developmental projects while ensuring transparency, accountability, and environmental sustainability.
Both NHPC and CVPPL are expected to submit updated progress reports to the UT administration within the next few weeks. Meanwhile, monitoring teams will continue to assess on-ground progress and address challenges in real time.
The inspection by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo underlines the strategic importance of hydroelectric power in Jammu and Kashmir’s development roadmap. With the Ratle and Dul Hasti projects now under tighter administrative oversight, the region moves closer to realizing its goal of becoming an energy hub for North India.
