In his pursuit to realize the goal of generating 9000 MW of hydro energy in the State to convert Jammu and Kashmir to a power surplus state from energy deficit one, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday inspected the status of works of Kishanganga Hydro Electric Project at the Dam site in Gurez and Power House location in Bandipora.Interacting with engineers and other staff on work, the Chief Minister laid stress on sticking to the bar chart prepared for the implementation of various works on the project. He said the prestigious 330 MW Kishanganga HE Project involving Rs.3642 crores and being constructed in Turnkey Basis is likely to be completed in 84 months from the date of its launch in January 2009.The Chief Minister inspected the excavation of Head Race Tunnel (HRT) and was informed that 95.5% tunnel is complete. Omar Abdullah went into the tunnel and inspected its various sections. It was also given out that excavation for Concrete Faced Rock-fill Dam has been completed with excavation of Spillway, and the construction of Dam is in progress alongwith construction of Cut-off wall.The Chief Minister was briefed about the Power House coming up near Bandipora. It was stated that excavation of Surge Shaft, Transformer Hall and Power House Cavern has been completed while for Pressure Shaft and Tail Race Tunnel is in progress. It was stated that an expenditure of Rs. 2809.64 crores has been incurred on the construction of the project which is likely to be completed by January 2016.The Chief Minister while taking brief on the re-settlement and rehabilitation plan for the affected population in Badwan, Khopri, Wampora and Nyle in Gurez and Chak and Kralpora in Bandipora, emphasized on ensuring fast track and befitting rehabilitation of the affected.It was stated that a rehabilitation programme for Rs.253.75 crore has been prepared for construction of 3-BHK duplex houses on one kanal land each at a cost of Rs.45 lakh each for 185 affected families. It was stated that additional Rs.11 crore has been earmarked for infrastructure development in the rehabilitation colony besides earmarking 46 crore for providing basic amenities including HT/LT network and construction of 50-beded Gynae-cum-Maternity Hospital.
The Chief Minister was told that about Rs.65 crore have been released by the Deputy Commissioner, Bandipora for rehabilitation works. The work on construction of 50-beded hospital has also been started in Bandipora.The Chief Minister was also informed about the fulfillment of Corporate Social Responsibility by the Kishanganga Project Management. It was stated that Rs.20 lakh have been provided by the Project Management for scholarships and infrastructure development in the schools and villages besides holding medical camps and training camps. An amount of Rs.40 lakh have been earmarked for this purpose for the current year while two ambulances have been provided to district hospital Bandipora and Gurez.