Ratle Hydro Electric Project

About Ratle Hydro Electric Project:

• It is an 850 MWrun-of-river hydroelectric power project being built on the Chenab Riverin the Kishtwar District of Jammu and Kashmir.
• The project is being developed by Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation (RHPCL), which was formed as a joint venture (JV) between Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) and India’s state-owned National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
• The projectcomprises a 133-meter-talland 194.8-meter-longconcrete gravity dam, a diversion dam, and an underground powerhouse on the right bank of the river.

Key Facts about Chenab River:

• It is a major river of India and Pakistan.
• Origin: It is formed by the confluence of two streams, Chandra and Bhaga, at Tandi in the upper Himalayas in the Lahaul and Spiti Districts of Himachal Pradesh.
• In its upper reaches, it is also known as the Chandrabhaga.
• It is a tributary of the Indus River.
• Course:

o It flows west through Jammu and Kashmir union territory, between the steep cliffs of the Siwalik Range (south) and the Lesser Himalayas (north).

o Turning southwest, it continues into Pakistan, descending from the uplands into the broad alluvial lowlands of Punjab province. 

o After receiving the Jhelum River near Trimmu, the Chenab empties into the Sutlej River, a tributary of the Indus River.

• Its total length is about605 miles (974 km), and it feeds several irrigation canals. 
• Tributaries: The tributaries of the Chenab River include Miyar Nalla, Sohal, Thirot, Bhut Nalla, Marusudar, and Lidrari.  

Q1: What is a Gravity Dam?

A gravity dam is a type of dam structure designed to withstand the force of water pressure solely through its weight. It relies on its massive weight and resistance to sliding to hold back the force of the water and maintain stability. Gravity dams are commonly built in locations where there is a solid foundation of bedrock or rock formations that can support their weight effectively.

Source:Govt diverts Chenab river water to expedite hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir