Explained: What Is Kiru Hydel Power Project? Why Is J&K Ex-Governor Satyapal Malik Named In CBI Chargesheet In ₹2,200-Cr Corruption Case? | (Photo Courtesy: X/Altered by FPJ)
New Delhi: The Kiru Hydel Power Project, a key energy infrastructure initiative in Jammu and Kashmir, has found itself at the heart of a major corruption probe involving former J&K Governor Satyapal Malik.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet naming Malik and seven others, alleging irregularities in the awarding of civil contracts worth Rs 2,200 crore. This comes after a three-year-long investigation into suspected malpractice linked to the project’s tendering process.
What is Kiru Hydel Project?
Located in the Chenab Valley, the Kiru Hydel Power Project is a 624 MW run-of-the-river scheme designed to harness hydroelectric power from the Chenab River. Estimated at a cost of Rs 4,287 crore, the project is being developed near the Singad and Bela streams in Kishtwar district. Its infrastructure includes a 123-metre-tall dam, a 700-metre-long diversion tunnel, and an underground powerhouse equipped with four turbines.
The initiative is being undertaken by Chenab Valley Power Projects Pvt Ltd (CVPPPL), a joint venture between the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC), and Power Trading Corporation (PTC). NHPC and JKSPDC each hold a 49% stake, with PTC owning 2%.
The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change cleared the project in 2008, with final environmental approval granted in 2016. The State Administrative Council approved it in 2019, followed by a foundation stone laying ceremony soon after. The project aims to address energy shortages in North India and promote local industry and employment.
From Bribe Claims to CBI Raids
The CBI alleged that the Rs 2,200-crore civil works contract for the Kiru project was awarded to Patel Engineering Ltd through non-transparent procedures. As per the FIR registered in 2022, “Though a decision was taken… for re-tender through e-tendering with a reverse auction… the same was not implemented,” leading to suspicions of favouritism.
Apart from Malik, the chargesheet names his aides Virender Rana and Kanwar Singh Rana, CVPPPL officials, and executives from Patel Engineering. Malik had previously claimed he was offered a Rs 300-crore bribe to approve two files, including this one, although he denies any wrongdoing.
Raids in February 2024 across 30 locations linked to Malik uncovered Rs 21 lakh in cash, digital devices, property papers and other incriminating material, according to the CBI.
