Centre mulls new hydropower projects, including Sawalkot dam in J&K

The Union Power Secretary announced that the Centre is evaluating new hydropower projects, including the Sawalkot hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir. The statement comes amid Pakistan's formal objections to the Sawalkot dam project, which the neighbouring country raised in July last year and again in February this year, seeking consultation under relevant protocols.

The Sawalkot project has emerged as a point of bilateral contention, with Pakistan citing concerns over the initiative. India's move to actively pursue hydropower development in the region underscores its focus on energy security and infrastructure expansion in the Union Territory.