DC Ramban discusses key issues with stakeholders

RAMBAN, September 04: Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mussarat Islam today chaired a meeting to discuss the key issues related to the construction of 1856 MW Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project on the River Chenab.

The meeting witnessed the participation of  Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), Divisional Forest Officers (DFO) from Forest Divisions Ramban and Batote, and Senior Manager, National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).

During the meeting, Senior Manager NHPC provided a comprehensive update on the project’s progress, highlighting the clearances that the NHPC has already secured.

These clearances encompass the Techno Economic Appraisal by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the requisite Forest Rights Act certificates. It was emphasized that these approvals were obtained following due procedures, including the approval from the Gram Sabha of 30 villages located in Districts of Ramban, Reasi, and Udhampur. Additionally, the Senior Manager, NHPC, shed light on the outstanding clearances that are yet to be obtained by the NHPC.

The Assistant Commissioner (Revenue) Ramban, who is also Collector, Land Acquisition Sawalkote HEP, drew the attention towards the pending land acquisition cases. He stressed upon the importance of settling these cases so that fair compensation is provided to the affected populations. He proposed conducting a survey to assess the actual quantum of land to be acquired vis-à-vis land acquisition cases for the said project.

Officers representing Forest Division Ramban and Batote briefed the meeting and stated that total forest land to be diverted for the Sawalkot  Hydroelectric Project in District Ramban amounts to 617.68 ha. Furthermore, they mentioned that the Compensatory Afforestation Plan has already been submitted to the higher authorities for approval.

Following extensive deliberations, the Deputy Commissioner issued several directives including laying of emphasis on the necessity to consolidate all land acquisition cases. Additionally, recognizing that some areas housing defense establishments would be affected by the proposed project, it was mandated to identify new land sites. This step is essential to ensure that the security component for District Ramban remains uncompromised, he added.