The Jammu & Kashmir government has proposed a pioneering step into “hydropower tourism” under its Draft Hydro Power Policy, 2025, aiming to boost local investment and economic activity.

The draft policy, recently reviewed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, introduces provisions for setting up tourism infrastructure such as hotels, parks, guesthouses, and water sports facilities around operational hydel projects of up to 25 MW capacity.

The tourism facilities will be permitted only after the respective hydropower plants commence operations. “The policy clearly says after the main hydropower project is completed and begins operating, they can apply to build tourism infrastructure,” said a senior official.

This approach aims to generate additional income and support the local economy. The policy is seen as significant, especially after the Centre suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan. After 40 years, the hydropower project and associated tourism assets must be handed over to the government.