Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project: Ramban District Faces 88.94% Submergence Impact

The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project, developed by NHPC, will require 1401.35 hectares of land, with 1097.55 hectares located in Ramban, 197 hectares in Udhampur, and 106.8 hectares in Reasi. Of the total 1158.75 hectares of submergence area, Ramban will see 1030.55 hectares submerged, while Udhampur and Reasi will face significantly lower impacts.

Key infrastructure, such as the powerhouse and main tunnels, is situated in Udhampur, but the majority of submergence and construction facilities are in Ramban. The government has prepared a Rehabilitation and Resettlement plan for affected communities, emphasizing that Udhampur will still receive development benefits despite its lesser impact. Access roads for transporting heavy machinery have been deemed inadequate, and any changes to the access plan could lead to construction delays and cost overruns.