Sawalkote Project Row: Ramban Residents Form JAC, Oppose Shift of Benefits and Connectivity | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: A public meeting held at Dak Bungalow in Ramban on Sunday saw strong opposition from residents against any proposed diversion of benefits linked to the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project, with participants asserting that the district must remain the primary stakeholder.

The gathering, attended by local residents, youth and civil society members, expressed concern over reports suggesting a possible shift in project-related advantages and access routes away from Ramban. Speakers warned that any such move would be resisted and reiterated that decisions undermining the district’s interests would not be accepted.

Participants emphasised that all-weather road connectivity to the project must remain through Ramban and that the district’s centrality in planning and execution should not be altered. Objections were also raised to a proposal reportedly suggesting alternative access from Udhampur.

During the meeting, reference was made to a communication dated April 13, 2026, by Union Minister Jitendra Singh addressed to Manohar Lal Khattar, forwarding a proposal submitted by MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta regarding road connectivity from Udhampur. Attendees opposed the proposal and maintained that Ramban must remain central to all project-related access and benefits.

The meeting unanimously raised key demands, including retaining the project’s focus in Ramban, ensuring road connectivity through the district, providing compensation in accordance with the Fair Compensation Act, and granting first preference in employment to local residents.

To coordinate further action, a Sawalkote Joint Action Committee (JAC) was constituted, with Fairoz Khan elected as president and Muzaffar Lone as legal advisor, along with a 15-member committee representing different sections of the district. The JAC is expected to engage with authorities on issues related to the project and local concerns.

The committee announced that a press conference will be held on May 1, coinciding with Labour Day, to outline its future course of action. A public rally has also been proposed.

The meeting concluded with participants stating that the movement would continue through lawful and democratic means until the interests of Ramban residents are safeguarded.

The Sawalkote project, a proposed 1,856 MW hydropower venture on the Chenab river, is among the largest planned power projects in Jammu and Kashmir and is being developed by National Hydroelectric Power Corporation. Estimated to cost over Rs 31,000 crore, the run-of-the-river project spans Ramban, Udhampur and Reasi districts, with Ramban accounting for the largest share of land requirement and submergence.

According to data presented in the Assembly, out of the total land requirement of about 1,401 hectares, nearly 1,097 hectares fall in Ramban, while the district also accounts for close to 89 percent of the total submergence area. Key components of the project are distributed across the districts, with major submergence zones and construction facilities located in Ramban.

The government has formulated a comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement plan for affected populations, including compensation for landowners and provisions aligned with established norms. Officials have stated that the project is expected to generate significant employment, improve infrastructure, and contribute to regional development.

The project has gained renewed momentum following recent policy decisions to fast-track hydropower development on western rivers, with tenders issued for major construction works and a revised completion timeline set around 2032. Once completed, it is expected to significantly enhance power generation capacity in the region and contribute to the national grid.