Major Milestone in Kiru Project
Kiru Hydroelectric Project Reaches Major Construction Milestone: The Kiru Hydroelectric Project has achieved a crucial milestone in dam construction. By mid-2025, over 10 lakh cubic metres of concreting have been completed out of the total 12 lakh cubic metres planned. This marks a decisive step towards project completion and demonstrates steady progress in one of India’s important hydroelectric developments. Simultaneously, stator assembly work for Unit-1 has begun in the powerhouse, advancing the commissioning schedule.
Static GK fact: The Kiru Project is located on the Chenab River, a major tributary of the Indus, which originates from Himachal Pradesh and flows through Jammu and Kashmir into Pakistan.
Overview and Capacity Details
The Kiru Project, with an installed capacity of 624 megawatts, is situated in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is being implemented by Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd (CVPPL), a joint venture between NHPC Limited and the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC). The project’s structure involves extensive dam concreting, tunnelling, and turbine installation to maximize water utilization and generate clean energy.
Static GK Tip: NHPC Limited, founded in 1975, is India’s largest hydropower development company and operates under the Ministry of Power.
Role of Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd
CVPPL plays a strategic role in harnessing the hydro potential of the Chenab basin. It manages four major projects — Pakal Dul (1000 MW), Kiru (624 MW), Kwar (540 MW), and Kirthai-II (930 MW) — totaling 3094 MW of capacity. The company’s objective is to transform the Chenab basin into a renewable energy hub for northern India. It emphasizes timely execution, technological advancement, and compliance with national energy strategies.
Static GK fact: The Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd was formed in 2011 as a joint venture to promote hydroelectric development in the Chenab basin.
Advances in the Pakal Dul Project
The Pakal Dul Hydroelectric Project, another CVPPL initiative, has recently achieved a significant tunnel boring milestone. It recorded 927 metres of tunnel excavation, the highest progress so far. The project includes constructing a 14.7 km Head Race Tunnel (HRT) with an 8.3-metre diameter using two Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). With 8.1 km completed and 6.6 km remaining, it is targeted for commissioning by 2026.
Static GK Tip: The Pakal Dul project, when completed, will be the largest hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir, capable of generating over 3300 million units annually.
Contribution to India’s Renewable Energy Mission
The Kiru and Pakal Dul projects are integral to India’s renewable energy transition. They help reduce dependence on fossil fuels by utilizing the vast hydro potential of the Indus basin. These projects align with the National Hydroelectric Development Plan and the government’s focus on achieving 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Their completion will enhance energy security, boost regional employment, and support sustainable growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Static GK fact: India ranks fifth globally in hydropower generation capacity, following China, Brazil, the United States, and Canada.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Kiru Hydroelectric Project Reaches Major Construction Milestone:
| Topic | Detail |
| Project Name | Kiru Hydroelectric Project |
| Location | Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir |
| River | Chenab River |
| Installed Capacity | 624 MW |
| Implementing Agency | Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd (CVPPL) |
| JV Partners | NHPC and JKSPDC |
| Total Dam Concreting | 10 lakh cubic metres completed of 12 lakh |
| Associated Project | Pakal Dul Hydroelectric Project |
| Pakal Dul Capacity | 1000 MW |
| Expected Commissioning | Kiru – under progress; Pakal Dul – 2026 |
