Tawang: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday called on power developers to explore smaller hydropower projects across various river basins in the state, stressing that such ventures could significantly enhance the state’s energy output.
Chairing the eighth meeting of the Hydropower Development Department’s steering committee in Tawang district, Khandu said the tributaries of the state’s five major rivers hold potential to generate between 100 MW and 300 MW of power.
He urged Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) engaged in large hydropower projects to also take up smaller, viable ones in parallel.
“You already have men and machines deployed at the sites. It should not be a difficult task,” he said, according to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office.
Reviewing 13 ongoing hydropower projects in Shi-Yomi, Dibang Valley, Anjaw, Subansiri, Kamle and other districts, Khandu expressed satisfaction with the coordination among departments and stakeholders.
He, however, underscored the need for adhering to timelines, citing the heavy financial losses incurred due to delays.
“Delay in execution costs us Rs 9 crore per day in lost revenue and local area development funds. This underlines the urgency of timely implementation,” he stressed.
Highlighting the importance of power evacuation, Khandu said the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) must work in close coordination with hydropower developers to ensure timely transmission.
“Power Grid needs to work in tandem with hydropower developers so that transmission begins from day one,” he added.
Calling for seamless cooperation between the state government and CPSUs, Khandu appreciated the efforts and commitment of all stakeholders involved.
The high-level review meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, Advisor H K Paliwal, deputy commissioners of concerned districts, and representatives from CPSUs including NHPC, SJVN, NEEPCO and THDCIL.
Project-specific progress, land acquisition challenges, and implementation timelines were discussed in detail.
Deputy commissioners were directed to expedite the land acquisition process with sensitivity and community involvement.
Four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed on the occasion between the state’s Hydropower Development Department and CPSUs to facilitate training and capacity building for technical and non-technical staff.
In a major development, Khandu handed over a cheque of Rs 269.97 crore to the Deputy Commissioner of Dibang Valley on behalf of SJVN Ltd., marking a significant milestone in the 3,097 MW Etalin hydroelectric project.
“This marks a significant step forward in the construction of the Etalin project,” Khandu said, thanking the Mishmi community for their support.
“Your cooperation is crucial for realising Arunachal Pradesh’s vision of harnessing its vast hydropower potential for sustainable growth,” he added.
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