Dr Jitendra Singh reviews status of Ujh Multipurpose Project in Jammu & Kashmir
Issued by Ministry of Science and Technology
Read or download the official PDF of this gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology on 2nd August 2026. Classified under Press Release.
Executive Summary & Key Takeaways
Executive Summary Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed the status and phased implementation roadmap of the Ujh Multipurpose Project (MPP) in Jammu & Kashmir on August 2, 2026. The project is designed to optimize the use of Ravi River waters for irrigation, power generation, and drinking water while addressing long-standing implementation delays. Key directives include commencing construction work immediately while simultaneously pursuing the remaining land acquisition to ensure the project meets its strategic and socio-economic milestones.
Key Points / Main Content
Implementation Strategy
- Phased Roadmap: The project will be executed in stages to ensure expeditious delivery of benefits.
- Land Acquisition: Work on the project site will begin without waiting for the total completion of land acquisition; remaining acquisition processes will proceed simultaneously with construction.
- Operational Standards: The implementing agency is directed to use innovative solutions and maintain high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
Project Objectives and Capacity
- Irrigation Reach: The project aims to provide irrigation to approximately 90,000 hectares of land across Kathua and Samba districts in Jammu & Kashmir, and Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts in Punjab.
- Power Generation: The facility is designed to generate between 186 MW and 212 MW of electricity.
- Water Supply: Provisions include supplying drinking water to the Kathua district and meeting industrial water requirements.
Strategic and Security Significance
- Water Optimization: The project seeks to utilize India’s share of the Ravi River and its tributaries, which previously flowed into Pakistan due to implementation delays.
- Border Management: Supported by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the project includes a security dimension to restrict unregulated water flows and plug vulnerable cross-border infiltration routes along the riverbed.
- Socio-Economic Development: The project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity, improve water security, and create new economic opportunities in the Union Territory.
Impact Analysis
WAPCOS Ltd (Implementing Agency) Impact As the entity entrusted with the project under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, WAPCOS is responsible for meeting specific implementation milestones and technical standards. Action Required Must explore innovative implementation strategies, maintain close coordination with all stakeholders, and ensure effective monitoring for timely execution.
Residents and Farmers of Kathua, Samba, Pathankot, and Gurdaspur Impact These stakeholders will benefit from enhanced agricultural productivity via irrigation for 90,000 hectares and improved access to drinking and industrial water. Action Required Prepare for a transition to improved water security and agricultural capacity as project phases are completed.
Ministry of Home Affairs Impact The project serves national security interests by assisting in border management. Action Required Provide continued backing to ensure the project effectively restricts unregulated water flows and secures vulnerable infiltration routes.
Government of India / Ministry of Science & Technology Impact The project reflects the government's resolve to realize long-delayed national projects and optimize natural resources. Action Required Provide full support, cooperation, and oversight to ensure the successful and timely completion of the project.