Sawalkote Power Project to Benefit Locals, Says Sajjad Shaheen
Jammu, KNT: National Conference MLA Sajjad Shaheen on Tuesday welcomed the issuance of tenders for the Sawalkote Hydropower Project, terming it a long-awaited step that could open up new employment opportunities for locals in Jammu and Kashmir.
Shaheen said the Sawalkote project has remained stalled for decades despite its potential to transform the power sector and contribute to economic development in the region. He expressed hope that the tendering process would now pave the way for the project’s execution and eventual benefits to the people.
Referring to the Indus Water Treaty, the NC legislator said the agreement was not in the interest of Jammu and Kashmir, as it restricted the region from fully utilising its hydropower potential. He said the move to operationalise the Sawalkote Hydropower Project indicates a shift towards harnessing available resources for local development.
Shaheen said the project, once completed, would not only strengthen power generation capacity but also generate direct and indirect employment for locals during construction and later operational phases. He added that improved power availability would support industry, agriculture, and overall economic activity in the region.
The MLA said that projects like Sawalkote can play a key role in reducing dependence on external power sources and ensuring energy security for Jammu and Kashmir. He urged timely execution of the project so that benefits reach the people without further delay.
The Sawalkote Hydropower Project is proposed on the Chenab river and is considered one of the major hydropower ventures planned in the region. [KNT]
