Renuka Dam Project: Finally Clear for Takeoff!

The long-delayed Renuka multi-purpose dam project in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh, has received final forest clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change—removing a key obstacle for the ₹6,947-crore initiative. The dam, located at Dadahu on the Giri river (a Yamuna tributary), is aimed at augmenting water supply to the National Capital Region and aiding flood control during the monsoon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone in December 2021.

According to Vasanth Kiran Babu, Conservator of Forests, Nahan, “The clearance will allow for the diversion of 909 hectares of forest land for dam construction.” With land acquisition already completed, efforts are now focused on finalizing technical details. Construction will begin with three 1.5-km diversion tunnels to temporarily reroute the river, enabling the build of the 148-meter-high rock-fill dam.

The project is designed to supply 23 cubic meters per second (cumecs) of water to Delhi. Initially scheduled for completion by 2014, it was delayed due to environmental and legal challenges. Originally estimated at ₹3,572.19 crore, the cost has nearly doubled due to prolonged delays. Declared a national project in 2009, it qualifies for 90% central funding for its water supply component.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.