Uttarakhand CM Discusses Hydropower Projects with Union Minister

: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met with Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil to discuss the critical role of water resources in the state's socio-economic development. During the meeting, Dhami emphasized the importance of hydropower projects, which significantly contribute to the state's gross domestic product. He highlighted that Uttarakhand currently purchases electricity worth Rs 1,000 crore annually from the open market, despite having an estimated hydroelectric potential of 25,000 megawatts, of which only 4,200 megawatts are being utilized. The Chief Minister noted that a recent review meeting led by the Principal Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office resulted in a directive to continue construction on only seven out of 70 proposed projects in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river valleys, all of which have surpassed 50% completion. He clarified that there is no ban on hydroelectric projects in other river valleys, excluding the Ganga and its tributaries, but expressed concerns over the lack of approvals from the Central Water Commission for projects in Pithoragarh district. Dhami urged Minister Patil to expedite the approval process for the development of projects in other river valleys, particularly in light of the stalled initiatives in Pithoragarh. Additionally, he requested funding approval for the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project under the Prime Minister Krishi Sichai Yojna and sought priority issuance of drawings for the Lakhwad multipurpose project from the Central Water Commission to facilitate timely completion.