Srinagar, Dec 15 (KNS): NHPC Limited is operating six hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir with a combined capacity of 2,250 MW, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

The operational projects include Salal (690 MW), Uri-I (480 MW), Dulhasti (390 MW), Sewa-II (120 MW), Uri-II (240 MW), and Kishanganga (330 MW), Minister of State for Power Shri Shripad Naik said in a written reply to a question by MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan.

On the under-construction projects, the Minister said the 850 MW Ratle and 1,000 MW Pakal Dul hydroelectric plants are being developed through joint ventures with the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC).

Ratle, managed by Ratle Hydro Power Corporation Limited, has recorded 26 per cent progress and is expected to be commissioned by November 2028.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Pakal Dul project, executed under Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited, has achieved 75 per cent physical progress and is scheduled for commissioning by December 2026, Shri Naik added.

Regarding the transfer of NHPC projects to the Union Territory administration, he said it depends on the terms outlined in agreements and MoUs with the state/UT government.

On the thermal power project at Nichhama Rajwar Handwara, the Minister said the Ministry of Power has no records of the project.

However, Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL) is conducting lignite exploration in the Nichahom block of Kupwara to assess the feasibility of developing the lignite deposits.(KNS)