With modern technology and a clear vision, Mohra can once again become a source of clean energy for Kashmir. If it was possible to build this project over 100 years ago, why can’t we restore it today?
By Mashkoor Ahmad Lone
Can Kashmir’s First Hydroelectric Project Light Up the Valley Again?
In the heart of Kashmir’s Baramulla district, near the banks of the Jhelum River, lies the abandoned Mohra Hydroelectric Power Plant—a once-great project that brought electricity to the valley over a century ago. Built in 1905 during Maharaja Pratap Singh’s rule, this power plant was one of Asia’s first hydroelectric projects. At a time when many big cities in the region had no electricity, Mohra provided power to Srinagar and nearby areas, helping Kashmir move towards modernization.
However, over time, natural disasters, government neglect, and changing energy needs led to its decline. By the 1980s, the plant completely stopped working. Today, as Jammu and Kashmir faces frequent power shortages, the question arises: Can Mohra be revived to solve Kashmir’s electricity crisis?
A Remarkable Feat of Engineering
In the early 20th century, building a hydroelectric power plant in Kashmir was a bold and visionary idea. British engineers, along with local Kashmiri laborers, worked hard to make it a reality. The biggest challenge was transporting heavy machinery from Europe to Kashmir. These machines first arrived in Rawalpindi (now in Pakistan) and were then carried on horseback through the tough mountain terrain to Mohra.
Initially, the plant had a capacity of 4 megawatts (MW), later increased to 9 MW. This was enough to power homes, flour mills, and industries in Srinagar and its surroundings. For more than 80 years, Mohra was Kashmir’s primary source of electricity.
But in 1959, a massive flood damaged the plant. Over time, bigger power projects were built, and Mohra was forgotten. Finally, in the late 1980s, it was shut down completely. Today, its once-powerful turbines and generators lie in ruins, covered in rust and moss.
Why Reviving Mohra is Important
Despite its abandoned state, Mohra still has great potential. Instead of building expensive new hydroelectric projects, the government could restore Mohra and use its existing infrastructure to generate electricity.
1. A Solution to Kashmir’s Power Crisis
Kashmir faces power shortages, especially in winter. Reviving Mohra with modern technology could add valuable megawatts to the grid, helping reduce electricity cuts and making the region more self-sufficient.
2. Preserving a Historic Landmark
Mohra is not just an old power plant—it is a part of Kashmir’s industrial history. Restoring it could turn it into an educational and heritage site, attracting tourists, engineers, and historians. Many countries have restored old hydro plants and made them tourist attractions—Kashmir can do the same.
3. Creating Jobs and Boosting the Economy
Restoring Mohra would create jobs for local workers, engineers, and technicians. A functional power plant would also support local businesses and industries, giving a boost to the regional economy.
4. Promoting Green Energy
Hydroelectric power is clean and renewable. Instead of importing electricity from outside, Kashmir should use its own water resources to generate power in an eco-friendly way. Reviving Mohra would help in achieving this goal.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Even though reviving Mohra has many benefits, there are some challenges:
Damaged Infrastructure – Since the plant has been abandoned for decades, it will require major repairs or reconstruction.
Government Neglect – Many proposals to restore Mohra have been made, but no action has been taken.
Environmental Concerns – Any restoration project must protect the Jhelum River and its ecosystem.
Possible Solutions
To overcome these challenges, a well-planned strategy is needed:
1. Government Support – The Jammu and Kashmir administration must prioritize Mohra’s revival and provide funding for it.
2. Public-Private Partnership – Collaborating with private energy companies could bring in investments and expertise.
3. Heritage and Tourism Integration – Like Europe’s historic hydro plants, Mohra could serve as both a power station and a heritage site.
4. Involving Local Experts – Hiring Kashmiri engineers and workers would ensure that local talent is used in the restoration.
A Golden Opportunity for Kashmir
The Mohra Hydroelectric Power Plant was once a symbol of progress and innovation. Letting it decay is a waste of history, resources, and opportunity.
With modern technology and a clear vision, Mohra can once again become a source of clean energy for Kashmir. If it was possible to build this project over 100 years ago, why can’t we restore it today?
Now is the time for the government, engineers, and historians to come together and bring Mohra back to life—not just as a memory of the past, but as a beacon of hope for the future.
