Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Himachal CM Sukhu inspects Shongtong-Kadcham Hydroelectric Project, sets deadline for completion by 2026
Babushahi Bureau
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), June 9, 2025: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today conducted an inspection of the 450 MW Shongtong-Kadcham Hydroelectric Project in Kinnaur district, emphasizing a timely completion by November 2026. The visit included detailed reviews at the powerhouse site in Kadcham and the barrage site in Powari.
During his visit, the Chief Minister interacted with engineers and workers at the site and directed officials to ensure all development activities progress in a time-bound and efficient manner.He highlighted that once operational, the project will generate an estimated ₹1,000 crore in annual revenue for the state.
“This project has been under construction for the past 13 years, but in the last two years, our government has accelerated the work, and we are committed to completing it on schedule,” Sukhu said, criticizing previous governments for stalling progress.
Calling water the "flowing gold" of Himachal Pradesh, CM Sukhu reaffirmed his government's commitment to maximizing the state’s hydropower potential for sustainable economic growth.
He accused earlier regimes of squandering this vital resource and said the current administration is taking concrete steps to safeguard and utilize it fully.
Sukhu further revealed that the state is actively working to take over projects like Dhaulasidh, Luhri, and Sunni and that evaluations are underway on investments made so far. “Hydropower development must proceed on terms that protect Himachal’s interests,” he asserted.
He also announced that a geo-thermal power project is being planned in Tapri, Kinnaur, and that the state is rapidly advancing in solar and green hydrogen energy production.
He pointed out the irony that the state, despite being energy-surplus, has to buy electricity at ₹5-6 per unit during winters. Promoting solar energy will help reduce this burden, he added.
Currently, solar projects of 626 MW capacity are in various stages of development under HPPCL, with the vision to make Himachal a Green Energy State by 2026, a self-reliant state by 2027, and the most prosperous state in India by 2032.
Upon his arrival at the Choling helipad, CM Sukhu was warmly welcomed by local residents and MLA Jagat Singh Negi, Minister for Revenue, Horticulture, and Tribal Development. General Manager of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Abid Hussain Sadiq presented a detailed briefing on the project's progress.
Senior district officials and dignitaries were also present during the visit.