The construction of the 850 MW Rattle Hydropower Project in Indian-occupied Kashmir has come under severe scrutiny due to accusations of environmental degradation, health hazards, and socio-economic exploitation.

The project, undertaken by Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited (MEIL), has been accused of causing irreparable damage to the fragile ecosystem of the region, particularly through “unscientific” blasting, drilling, and waste disposal.

Local residents living near the site have presented evidence of severe damage to properties, including homes and businesses. Reports indicate that careless blasting activities and irresponsible waste dumping have led to structural damage, as well as significant health problems, with many residents suffering from respiratory issues and other ailments. Protests erupted last week, with locals claiming that MEIL had failed to meet its development obligations, particularly with regard to employment. Despite promises made in the project’s contractual terms, the locals have not been provided with jobs, further exacerbating the frustration and hardship already felt by the Kashmiris.

Critics argue that the ongoing construction of such mega projects, led by Indian companies, disproportionately benefits non-local interests, leaving the indigenous population to bear the brunt of the environmental and economic fallout. “These development projects should be aimed at improving the lives of the locals, not exploiting them,” said a spokesperson for one of the local protest groups.

Further fueling tensions is the Indian government’s controversial stance on the resettlement of non-indigenous populations and the increasing militarization of the region. While Indian authorities assert that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A has brought positive change to Kashmir, the ground reality suggests otherwise, with many locals continuing to face dire circumstances.

Adding to the controversy, MEIL’s recent involvement in political donations has raised concerns. The company was one of the largest contributors to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), donating Rs 586 crore to the party’s controversial electoral bond scheme. This financial support has drawn attention to the company’s close ties to the ruling government and has led to further skepticism regarding its role in the region’s development.

Of particular concern is the potential environmental impact of the Rattle Hydropower Project. If constructed according to its current design, the project will reduce the Chenab River's water level by 40% at Head Marala. This could have severe consequences for irrigation in Pakistan’s central Punjab, a region heavily dependent on the river for agriculture. In response, the World Bank established an arbitration court at Pakistan’s request to resolve concerns over the project’s potential cross-border environmental impact.