Himachal CM Sukhu directs firm action against developers for undue delay in hydropower projects

Taking a firm stance, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday (June 21, 2025) directed the State’s Power Department to issue cancellation notice to non-serious hydro-power developers, whose projects have been at a standstill for years.

Presiding over a high level meeting of the power department on Saturday, the Chief Minister asserted that undue delay in the project execution are causing significant losses to the State exchequer. “Hydro power is the mainstay in the State’s economy and the state government is committed to ensuring that the benefits reach to the people of the State. The government is committed to safeguard the interests of the people of the State across multiple platforms and forums,” he said.

Mr. Sukhu also reiterated that the State government will not move ahead on the upcoming projects like Kishau and Renuka Dam unless the neighbouring States provide to settle the long concrete assurances pending arrears of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

The Chief Minister instructed the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) to complete the commissioning of Kaza solar power project by August, 2025 and to expedite the one MW solar power project with battery backup at Dhanwas in the remote Pangi valley of Chamba district. This project is expected to be completed by December, 2025 which is expected to guarantee uninterrupted power supply to the valley even during heavy snowfall.

Mr. Sukhu also reviewed the progress of the ‘Green Panchayat scheme’ and directed to speed up the projects during the meeting, said an official statement.