Himachal Pradesh Seeks Supreme Court Directive on Shanan Hydel Project

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the Himachal Pradesh government will urge the Supreme Court to instruct Punjab to return the 110 MW Shanan Hydel Project to Himachal. The Himachal government also aims to assert its rights in the Bhakra Beas Management Board and other hydro projects.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu declared that Himachal Pradesh plans to petition the Supreme Court to mandate Punjab's handover of the 110 MW Shanan Hydel Project by October 31. According to Sukhu, the administration is committed to claiming Himachal's 'rightful claims' to benefit its populace.

Sukhu added that the lease for the Shanan Hydel Project, situated in Jogindernagar, had expired, underscoring the state's current standing to reclaim the project. The state government will also approach both the central and Punjab governments to facilitate the swift transfer of control.

The administration will expedite securing Himachal Pradesh's entitlements within the Bhakra Beas Management Board, as previously ruled by the Supreme Court. Additionally, a non-compliance notice will be issued to JSW for the 1045 MW Karcham Wangtoo Hydro Power Project. The government has introduced progressive royalty slabs for hydro projects to ensure long-term benefits, significantly bolstering the state's economy.

(With inputs from agencies.)