Shimla: The legal tussle over the Shanan Hydroelectric Project, located in Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh, has intensified, with the Supreme Court issuing a notice to the Punjab government.

The court has sought a response from Punjab by November 8, 2024, on the matter of control over the project, following a petition by the Himachal Pradesh government.

This dispute arises as the 99-year lease granted to Punjab for the project, which generates significant revenue (around ₹200 crore annually), expired in March 2024.

Himachal Pradesh, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has been pushing to regain control of the Shanan Project, citing its rightful ownership now that the lease has ended.

However, Punjab is reluctant to cede control, leading to a legal battle. Himachal Pradesh has even sought intervention from the central government to secure its claim over the project.

This project, established during British rule, remains a key economic asset for the region, making the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings crucial for Himachal’s financial health.