Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel: ₹2,352 Crore River-Linking Project Approved

at a cost of ₹2,352 crore. While still in the early stages, it represents India's commitment to inter‑basin water transfer and clean energy. With the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, India is moving ahead confidently to manage its own river waters.

Exam-Focused Points

• Project name:  Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel.

• Approved:  May 2026 by the central government.

• Location:  Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul valley, near Koksar village).

• Estimated cost:  ₹2,352 crore.

• Key infrastructure:  8.7 km tunnel + 19 m high barrage on Chandra river.

• Rivers involved:  Chenab basin (Chandra river tributary) to Beas river.

• Implementing agency:  National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).

• Hydropower potential:  Nearly 4,000 MW additional generation.

• Indus Waters Treaty:  Signed 1960 between India and Pakistan; placed in abeyance by India in April 2025.

• Chenab river:  One of the western rivers under the original treaty.

• Beas river:  Tributary of Sutlej; flows through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.

• Current status:  Drawing‑board stage; no officially verified completion date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel?
A: It is a river‑linking project that will divert surplus water from the Chenab basin to the Beas river through an 8.7 km tunnel in Himachal Pradesh.

Q2: How much will the project cost?
A: The estimated cost is ₹2,352 crore.

Q3: Which agency will build the project?
A: The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) will implement the project.

Q4: How much hydropower will this project enable?
A: It is expected to facilitate nearly 4,000 MW of additional hydropower generation in Himachal Pradesh.

Q5: What is the status of the Indus Waters Treaty?
A: India placed the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in abeyance in April 2025. This allows India to build projects like the Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel without restrictions.