Arunachal Pradesh CM Proposes Smaller Hydropower Projects for Enhanced Capacity
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Synopsis
On April 10, Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu recommended that existing power developers explore smaller hydropower projects in local river basins. This initiative aims to bolster the state's hydropower capacity, with an emphasis on timely execution and collaboration among stakeholders.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Pema Khandu advocates for smaller hydropower projects.
- Tributaries can yield 100 to 300 MW of power.
- Emphasis on timely project completion to avoid revenue loss.
- Collaboration between PGCIL and hydropower developers is crucial.
- MoUs signed for workforce training and development.
Itanagar, April 10 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, on Thursday recommended that power developers currently operating in the state investigate smaller projects within their respective river basins and pursue them if viable to enhance the hydropower capacity of the state.
During the 8th meeting of the steering committee of the Department of Hydro Power Development, the Chief Minister pointed out that the tributaries of the state’s five primary rivers are relatively small and could feasibly produce between 100 to 300 MW of power.
He stated that the CPSUs engaged in larger projects could expand their operations by simultaneously undertaking smaller projects.
“Since you already have personnel and equipment at the work sites, it shouldn’t pose a significant challenge,” Khandu remarked.
While reviewing the status of 13 hydropower projects in districts such as Shi Yomi, Dibang Valley, Anjaw, Subansiri, Kamle, and others, he expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that all projects are moving forward well, aided by the entire government machinery working in unison.
The Chief Minister urged the CPSUs to adhere to their timelines and ensure the timely completion of their projects.
“Any delays in execution result in a loss of Rs 9 crore per day in lost revenue and Local Area Development Fund. This highlights the urgency for timely implementation,” Khandu emphasized.
He also stressed the importance of the Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) in the development of the state’s power sector.
“PGCIL must collaborate closely with hydropower developers so that power transmission can commence from day one,” he stated.
Khandu highlighted that both the state government and CPSUs need to work together in harmony, rather than in isolation, and praised the commitment and collaboration demonstrated thus far.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, Advisor H K Paliwal, deputy commissioners from relevant districts, and representatives from the Government of India and CPSUs such as NHPC, SJVN, NEEPCO, and THDCIL.
Project-specific timelines were reviewed, key challenges were addressed, and the progress of land acquisition was assessed during the meeting.
Deputy Commissioners were instructed to expedite processes with heightened sensitivity and community involvement. On this occasion, MoUs were signed with four PSUs to train and enhance the capacities of technical and non-technical staff within the Department of Hydro Power Development, aiming to cultivate a future-ready workforce.
Earlier, the Chief Minister presented a cheque of Rs 269.97 crore to the Deputy Commissioner of Dibang Valley on behalf of SJVN Ltd.
“This represents a significant advancement in the construction of the 3097 MW Etalin Hydroelectric Project, one of the largest in the country!” Khandu remarked.
He also expressed gratitude to the Mishmi community for their support in the project’s execution.
“Your cooperation is vital for realizing Arunachal Pradesh’s vision of tapping into its abundant hydropower potential for sustainable growth and prosperity,” Khandu concluded.
