Pakal Dul project to offer 12% free power to J&K

The proposed 1,000 Mw Pakal Dul hydroelectric power project on Marusadar River, a tributary of the Chenab, in Jammu and Kashmir will be completed in 66 months and will provide 12 per cent free power to the state, according to the power ministry.

A foundation stone for construction of the proposed hydroelectric power project in the state was laid by Prime Minister Modi on Saturday.

In a statement issued in the national capital, the ministry said all clearances have been obtained for the Pakal Dul project, which aims to generate 3,330.18 million units of electricity annually.

The proposed ~81.12-billion project will not only be the largest hydroelectric power project in the state but also the first storage unit. It is expected to employ 3,000 people during its construction phase and 500 during operation stage.

“It has been agreed that the government of J&K shall be getting 12 per cent free power after 10 years of commissioning of the project and water usage charges as applicable,” the ministry said.

Additional 1 per cent free power will go towards Local Area Development Fund (LADF). Also, the state will have first right to purchase balance power, it added.

Modi also inaugurated the 330 Mw Kishanganga hydroelectric power project in J&K, which will provide 13 per cent free power to the state besides creating employment.