Rs 13,000 Crore Power Play Arunachal Signs Mega Hydro Project Deal

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has taken a significant stride in advancing the state's energy infrastructure by signing a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Tehri Hydropower Development Corporation India (THDCIL) for the development of the 1,200 MW Kalai-II hydroelectric project in the Lohit river basin. This venture is poised to inject over Rs 13,000 crore investment during the construction phase, heralding considerable developmental prospects and employment opportunities in the region.

This collaboration marks the conclusion of MoAs for 13 projects with a cumulative capacity of 12,717 MW within the calendar year, highlighting the state's commitment to bolstering its energy generation capabilities. The Kalai-II project, previously allocated to an independent power developer in 2009, had faced stagnation due to various reasons. However, concerted efforts by both the Central and state governments in the last two years have culminated in THDCIL being entrusted with reviving and executing this project. Notably, this is the maiden project allocated to a central Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) in the Lohit basin and THDCIL's inaugural venture in the state.

Emphasizing the importance of expeditious execution, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has urged all stakeholders to approach the project with a mission-oriented mindset, underscoring the state's commitment to harnessing its hydropower potential for bolstering the nation's energy security.

Previously, the state government had inked MoAs with three central PSUs—NHPC, SJVN, and NEEPCO—for the development of 12 hydropower projects totaling 11,517 MW capacity in the Subansiri, Dibang, and Siang basins. This concerted effort underscores Arunachal Pradesh's proactive stance in harnessing its renewable energy resources for sustainable development and bolstering the nation's energy landscape.