Powering the Future: Inside the ₹30,000 Crore Etalin Hydro Revolution

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently reviewed the progress of major hydropower projects in Dibang Valley district, including the 3,097 MW Etalin Hydroelectric Project (HEP) and the 680 MW Attunli HEP.

These projects form part of a broader hydropower development plan that also includes the Emini (500 MW), Amulin (420 MW), and Mihumdon (400 MW) projects, together accounting for a total planned capacity of 5,097 MW. The Etalin HEP, being developed by SJVN, is set to become India’s largest hydroelectric project and will be constructed on the Dri River. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein confirmed that the project has received key statutory approvals, including environmental clearance and Stage-I forest clearance. The project cost has been approved at ₹30,037.36 crore, with over 69 per cent of land compensation already disbursed.

The Attunli HEP, designed as a run-of-the-river project, is expected to generate 2,728.50 million units of electricity annually and will feature advanced infrastructure, including an underground powerhouse. Describing the Etalin project as transformative, Chief Minister Khandu said it would significantly boost infrastructure development, employment generation, and clean energy capacity in the state.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.