Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Vows to Reclaim Shanan Hydel Project.

Shimla:

In a decisive move to assert Himachal Pradesh’s rights, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced his intention to approach the Supreme Court to reclaim the 110 MW Shanan Hydel Project from Punjab. During a meeting with senior Energy Department officials, Sukhu emphasized that the project’s lease to Punjab has expired and must be returned to Himachal Pradesh by October 31st. The state government plans to engage with both the Government of India and Punjab to expedite the transfer.

Sukhu also underscored efforts to secure Himachal’s rightful share in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and indicated that a notice of non-compliance would be served to JSW Company regarding the 1045 MW Karcham Wangtoo Hydro Power Project. The Chief Minister reiterated the commitment to enforce a royalty framework—12 percent, 18 percent, and 30 percent—on power projects, with a provision for project return to the state after 40 years.

The Chief Minister’s vision includes enhancing the state’s hydropower and tourism sectors, aiming to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant by 2027 and one of the country’s most prosperous states by 2032. The meeting was attended by key officials, including Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthy and Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena.