Udhampur, May 6: Union Minister Jitendra Singh has taken steps to connect the Sawalkot Hydel Project via the Pathi Pangara route, following a request from local MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta. Residents have welcomed this initiative, viewing it as a significant move towards improved infrastructure and regional development.
Local BJP MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta stated, “The Sawalkot Hydel Project is a dream initiative of the Jammu and Kashmir government. The plan was devised long ago, but it stalled due to financial constraints. The estimated cost for this project is around ₹28,000 to ₹30,000 crores.”
He added, “During my tenure in the previous government, I provided some maps for this project and facilitated some geo-mapping work. There was also a proposal for constructing a tunnel, but progress halted as it was not a government priority at the time. Now, following the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, this project has been revived and is a top priority for the government. It is expected to generate 1,856 megawatts of electricity, providing not just power production benefits but also clean energy.”
Gupta mentioned that part of the dam for the Sawalkot Hydel Project will be located in the Reasi district, while the powerhouse will be built in Udhampur district.
A local youth expressed optimism about the project, saying, “I’ve heard that the road will pass through my area. I want it to go this way because it will boost our employment. Currently, the road is in terrible condition with many potholes. If it rains daily, the road gets blocked. If it is widened now, tourist numbers will increase, benefiting our jobs. This will be advantageous for all of us.”
Regarding Panchari, he noted, “Panchari is a great place for tourism, with many attractions. Poor road conditions deter visitors. The weather also plays a significant role; when it rains, the roads close, and sometimes trees fall. This is why tourists avoid this area.”
He concluded, “I run a small shop, but business is slow. If the road improves, tourists will come, and my business will thrive.”
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