J&K question from Naib Tehsildar exam, 2018 by JKSSB
A revival of Jammu and Kashmir’s first hydroelectric project constructed in 1905, is on the state government’s radar. This was constructed as run-of-river scheme back in 1905, with the initial installed capacity of 4 Megawatts. What is the name of this project?
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
Mohra
The Mohra (or Mahura) Hydroelectric Project is one of the oldest in South Asia and holds a significant place in the technological history of Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Facts about the Mohra Project:
Establishment: Constructed in 1905 (some records cite its commissioning in 1908) under the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh.
Design: It was designed as a run-of-river scheme on the left bank of the Jhelum River in the Baramulla district.
Engineering Marvel: A unique feature of this project was its 11-km-long wooden flume (water conductor) made of high-quality deodar timber, which carried water along the steep mountain terrain to the turbines.
Initial Capacity: It began with an installed capacity of 4 Megawatts (MW), which was used to power dredgers for flood control in Sopore and famously to electrify the silk factory in Srinagar.
Revival Status: After being severely damaged by floods in 1959 and 1992, the project became defunct. In recent years, the J&K government has prioritized its revival as a heritage project with a proposed new capacity of approximately 10.5 MW.
Comparison of the Options:
Kiru: A much newer, large-scale (624 MW) hydroelectric project currently under construction on the Chenab River.
Kirthai: A proposed mega-hydro project on the Chenab River.
Salal: A major 690 MW power station in Reasi, commissioned in 1987—much later than the Mohra project.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
