Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) is gearing up for a protracted legal battle after the state government decided to take over three hydel power projects currently under its construction: the 382 MW Sunni, 210 MW Luhri Stage-I, and 66 MW Dhaulasidh, all of which were allotted to SJVN by the previous BJP administration. SJVN Director (Personnel) Ajay Sharma stated, “The possibility of any mutual understanding has ended with the government’s decision to take over the projects. Now, the matter will be decided in court.” This decision comes in the wake of failed negotiations between stakeholders to revise the agreement for project implementation. The Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government is demanding a free power share of 12%, 18%, and 30%, as well as the return of the projects after 40 years, while SJVN insists on the original terms agreed upon with the Jai Ram Thakur government. Additionally, the government plans to reclaim the 500 MW Dugar and 180 MW Baira Suil hydroelectric projects previously allotted to NHPC.
Legal battle looms as govt decides to take over 3 SJVN hydel projects
