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The Sawalkote Dilemma - Hydropower vs. Himalayan Fragility: A Governance Crossroads

The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project is a planned 1.8-GW scheme on the Chenab River. It has gained geopolitical significance, especially post the Pahalgam attack, which led to India unilaterally suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). This project is part of a larger hydropower corridor on the Chenab, which already includes Dulhasti, Baglihar, and Salal projects.

Sawalkote Hydroelectric ProjectIndus Waters Treaty (IWT)

Concerns

Strategic Push vs. Environmental Prudence

       Despite its strategic importance, the project raises environmental concerns such as: 

  • Ignoring the cumulative impact on sediment loads and slope instability.
  • The proposed gravity dam will create a reservoir of over 50,000 crore litres, functioning closer to a storage dam rather than a run-of-river scheme.
  • Rehabilitation costs are minimal, accounting for just 0.6% of total expenditure, even though it will affect nearly 1,500 families and divert 847 hectares of forests.
  • The project''s strategic timing reflects India''s intent to utilize its entitlement over western rivers after the IWT suspension.
  • Proceeding with large projects without cooperative mechanisms could lead to international scrutiny, particularly by Pakistan which has challenged the suspension''s legality.

         Ecological Fragility

       The Chenab already hosts multiple hydropower projects (Dulhasti, Baglihar, Salal), forming a “bumper-to-bumper” corridor. Ignoring cumulative impacts risks sediment overload, slope instability, and long-term ecological damage.

       Governance Test

       National security and ecological responsibility must reinforce—not undermine—each other. Fast-tracking without due diligence reflects poor governance.

Road ahead

  • Cumulative Impact Assessment: Mandatory for all Himalayan hydropower corridors.
  • Transparent Decision-Making: Public consultations and scientific reviews must guide approvals.
  • Integrated River Basin Management: A long-term strategy balancing energy needs with ecological sustainability.

The legacy of the Sawalkote project will depend on India''s ability to balance strategic needs with ecological responsibilities, ensuring that national security and environmental stewardship reinforce each other.



POSTED ON 20-10-2025 BY ADMIN
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