Why anhydrous ZnCl2 is used in Groove's Process?

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Anhydrous ZnCl2 is essential in the conversion of 1-degree alcohols to alkyl halides through an SN2 reaction due to its role as a Lewis acid. It enhances the electrophilicity of the carbon atom by forming a complex with the alcohol, facilitating the departure of the hydroxyl group. The presence of ZnCl2 helps to stabilize the transition state, making the reaction more favorable. If ZnCl2 were hydrated, its effectiveness would be diminished, as the hydration would reduce its ability to coordinate with the alcohol and weaken the C-OH bond. Thus, anhydrous conditions are crucial for optimal reaction efficiency.
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Why anhydrous ZnCl2 is required for 1 degree alcohols to convert into alkyl halides? It is a SN2 reaction; so the weakening of C-OH bond can be done with H+ of HCl. Oxygen from the OH group can donate its lone pair to H+ and O develops a positive charge which weakens the C-OH bond.Then bond between C and Cl will be forming and bond between C and O will be breaking in the transition state.Then what is the necessity of anhydrous ZnCl2?
 
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What role does ZnCl2 play? Would it be able to play that role once the cation is hydrated?
 

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