Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
DISCLAIMER:
The “Did You Know” series by Jehlum – The Info Avenue is created to share verified, educational, and awareness-based content about history, culture, and society. Every fact presented here is carefully researched from credible and publicly available sources. However, minor variations in historical interpretation may exist.Our goal is to inform, educate, and spark curiosity — not to promote opinions or claims. Readers are encouraged to explore the cited references for deeper understanding.For more such informative stories, visit https://jehlum.in
Join our Telegram for updates: https://t.me/jehlumjk
Mohra Power Project Kashmir, Mohra Hydroelectric Project, Baramulla heritage power, J&K hydroelectric heritage, Kashmir electrification history
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmir’s 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Nestled in the Boniyar area, about 35 km downstream of Baramulla in north Kashmir, lies the historic Mohra Hydroelectric Power Project — a remarkable engineering feat dating back to 1905. Built under the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh and designed by Canadian-born engineer Major Dlain de Latbinière, this run-of-the-river scheme has the distinction of making Srinagar the second city in the Indian subcontinent to be electrified, after Mysore.
At its inception, the Mohra Power Project had an installed capacity of approximately 4 MW, later enhanced to around 9 MW.What makes it stand out is the incredible 11-kilometre wooden flume — an artificial channel largely crafted from deodar timber and masonry tunnels, iron bridges and wooden construction — built across challenging terrain to divert the waters of the Jhelum River for turbine operation.
Engineering Marvel and Social Impact in Early 1900s Kashmir
When the Mohra Project became operational, it didn’t just bring electricity — it revolutionised daily life in the region. Homes, silk-reeling machines in local factories, water-heating basins and industrial workshops all benefited from its power. The workforce was equally remarkable, drawn from Ladakh, Baltistan, Afghanistan and Punjab.The project helped shift Kashmir from a purely agrarian/traditional economy to one where early industrial-infrastructure innovation counted.
A Legacy in Decline
Despite its early brilliance, the Mohra Power Project suffered repeated setbacks. It was damaged during the 1947 tribal raids and severely by the floods of 1959. Eventually, from 1992 onward, it lay defunct. For decades, the flume has largely disappeared; remnants remain visible along the road between Baramulla and Uri.Local observers say the neglect of this heritage hydro station is a lost opportunity—not just for power but for tourism, heritage, and local employment.
Heritage Revival and Modern Significance
In recent years, the government of Jammu & Kashmir, under the leadership of Manoj Sinha, has taken proactive steps to revive this century-old marvel. In September 2022 it was reported that ₹133.50 crore had been sanctioned for restoration and revival of the project by the board of the J&K State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC).The plan envisions both heritage conservation and renewed power-generation capacity, turning the site into an architectural-industrial landmark of modern Kashmir.
Challenges That Remain
Despite official announcements, recent reports indicate the revival is still awaiting full funding and policy support. A feasibility study by Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee recommended the project for central assistance under the Small Hydro Development Programme, but as of 2025 the required grants have not been sanctioned. This delay underscores the complexity of heritage-power revival: balancing outdated infrastructure, modern standards, environmental/forest clearances, funding and site preservation.
A Hidden Gem of Kashmir’s Past and Future
The Mohra Hydroelectric Power Project stands as both a symbol of Kashmir’s early technological ambition and a tangible opportunity for its future. With its heritage value, unique engineering features, and potential as a revived power and tourism asset, this project deserves wider attention.
“Kashmir hydroelectric heritage”, “Mohra power revival 2025” or “Baramulla heritage energy project”.
By exploring this story, engaging with its revival, or simply knowing it, you connect with a piece of Kashmir’s lesser-known history—and open up pathways to education, career awareness and community pride.
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project
