Thu Apr 02 15:08:10 UTC 2026: ### J&K Hydropower Project Handover Sparks Political Storm
The Story:
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of effectively “handing over” two new hydropower projects, the 240 MW Uri-I Stage-II and 260 MW Dulhasti Stage-II (totaling 500 MW), to the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). This move has ignited political tensions, particularly as the return of NHPC-managed projects was a key issue in the last Assembly election. The agreement, signed on March 27, 2026, follows a Build, Own, Operate, Transfer (BOOT) model for 40 years, after which the projects are to be transferred back to the Union Territory.
The ruling National Conference (NC) refuted the PDP’s claims, stating that the decisions regarding these projects were made in 2020-21, prior to their government’s tenure. The NC emphasized that the current stage involves finalizing the Implementation Agreement, ensuring it aligns with the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and protects J&K’s interests.
Key Points:
* PDP alleges J&K government “handed over” the Uri-I Stage-II and Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower projects to NHPC.
* The projects, totaling 500 MW, will operate under a BOOT model for 40 years.
* Agreement signed on March 27, 2026, in Jammu.
* NC claims the decision originated in 2020-21, before their government was in power.
* J&K is entitled to over 12% of the electricity generated from NHPC-operated projects, with the rest sold to the grid.
* A committee in 2011 recommended developing the Uri-II project by the state government after ownership transfer.
Key Takeaways:
* The control and management of hydropower resources in Jammu and Kashmir remain a politically sensitive issue.
* Disagreements over energy policy underscore the ongoing tensions between regional political parties regarding autonomy and resource management.
* The BOOT model provides a framework for development, but also raises concerns about long-term control and benefit sharing.
* The historical context of unheeded recommendations for project transfers from 2006 highlights the persistent nature of this issue.
First Piper 