India, July 2 -- The forest advisory committee (FAC) has granted 'in-principle' approval for diversion of 847.17 ha. of forest land for construction of Sawalkot HEP (1856 MW) in Jammu and Kashmir, according to documents seen by HT.

Sawalkot HEP is one of the six strategic hydropower developments aimed at optimising India's use of Indus waters while the treaty with Pakistan remains suspended.

The approval is granted in favour of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Ltd and will involve forest diversion from Udhampur, Mahore, Batote and Ramban divisions.

The conditions stipulated by FAC include: The UT government shall provide a copy of approvals obtained pertaining to dam safety; environmental clearance for the project along ...