India has embarked on a monumental journey to boost its hydropower capacity by nearly 12 gigawatts (GW) through both new and ongoing projects situated along the rivers of the Indus basin. This initiative aims to meet the country's escalating energy demands while optimizing its allocated water resources.
The major projects driving this initiative include Sawalkot with a capacity of 1,856 MW, Pakal Dul at 1,000 MW, Ratle at 850 MW, Bursar at 800 MW, Kiru at 624 MW, and the combined Kirthai 1 & 2 generating 1,320 MW. Each of these projects is crucial in reinforcing India's energy infrastructure.
While several of these hydropower projects are already under construction, they have encountered delays primarily due to legal and treaty-related challenges. Recent high-level discussions have catalyzed efforts to expedite their execution.
The Indus Water Treaty, established in 1960, delineates the distribution of the Indus basin rivers between India and Pakistan. While India enjoys unrestricted access to the eastern rivers, its utilization of the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) is limited, prompting scrutiny of hydropower endeavors on these rivers.
India has halted the treaty process in response to Pakistan's persistent backing of cross-border terrorism and its frequent objections to Indian infrastructure projects, despite India's compliance with treaty stipulations.
Pakistan has objected to significant projects like Kishanganga and Ratle, claiming they breach treaty norms. It has previously sought international arbitration, especially during the Kishanganga dam's construction phase. In response, India has dismissed these objections and is advocating for a treaty renegotiation due to shifts in river flow and geographical conditions.
The geography of the Indus basin is evolving, with reports from the US-based Center for Strategic and International Studies indicating reductions in river flow caused by glacial melting and natural changes in the river courses.
Upon their completion, these projects will integrate with the national grid, significantly enhancing India's renewable energy capacity and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. This represents a pivotal step in the nation's energy strategy and commitment to sustainable development.
“In strategy and service, do not be deterred by obstacles—they are only tests of resolve.”
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