Sitting on treasure

Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as the “Powerhouse of India,” boasts one of the country’s most abundant and untapped resources: hydropower. With an estimated potential of 18,000 MW according to the government, the region is a goldmine for clean, renewable energy. Yet, a troubling reality has emerged — only a meagre 3,540.15 MW (23.54%) of this potential has been harnessed to date. This startling revelation was made by the government in the Legislative Assembly Saturday, thereby raising questions about the region’s energy future, its economic growth, and the benefits that have yet to materialize for its people. The significance of tapping into Jammu and Kashmir’s hydropower potential cannot be overstated. The state’s geography, with its rivers, waterfalls, and abundant snowfall, provides a natural advantage for hydropower generation. It is not just an environmental asset but an economic one, capable of driving employment, supporting local industries, and contributing to the nation’s energy security. Yet, despite this vast potential, much of it remains untouched. There are multiple factors behind this slow progress. One of the primary reasons is the underdeveloped infrastructure. Building the necessary dams, power stations, and transmission lines requires significant investment and technological expertise. The economic implications of underutilizing this resource are significant. Jammu and Kashmir, despite its energy potential, is heavily dependent on the central grid and faces frequent power shortages, especially in remote areas. Had the state harnessed even half of its hydropower potential, it could have not only met its own energy needs but also contributed significantly to the national grid. Jammu and Kashmir’s hydropower potential represents a tremendous opportunity for the region and the nation. However, the current state of underutilization is a glaring inefficiency that must be addressed with urgency.