Centre seeks early start of hydro projects in State

From Our Correspondent

Itagar, Feb 26: The Centre is keen to start the hydro power projects in the state.  Declaring that Aruchal is a priority state for development of hydro-power sector, Additiol Secretary, Union Ministry of Power, B P Pandey in a meeting with state Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently said that the Centre has identified seven doable projects, which if prioritised could hugely transform the economy of the state.

Pandey expressed optimism that once these projects are through, investor’s confidence will get a boost in the state, an official communiqué informed here today. The Additiol Secretary sought the guidance of Chief Minister in giving fresh lease of life to the pending projects in Aruchal, informing that the Centre has set the target of achieving 75000 MW by 2030, said a CMO statement. “That’s the broad policy we are coming up with – to add another 30-35000 MW to the estimated current total installed capacity of 40-43000 MW in the country within the next 13-14 years,” Pandey informed and added that “out of which, 10000 MW alone could come from Aruchal.” The meeting discussed on the status of 2880 MW Dibang dam, Tawang Stage-I & II dams, 2000 MW Subansiri Lower dam, including NEEPCO projects. Pandey particularly pointed out the need for the Centre to find acceptable solution for the stalled Subansiri Lower dam, expressing concern that Aruchal is losing about Rs 46 crore per month in terms of revenue and NHPC about Rs 1.5 crore every day for maintence. Urging Aruchal and Assam to break the ice, the secretary informed that other issues such as – relief and rehabilitation has been taken care of.

The Chief Minister informed that he is in regular touch with Union Power Minister, Piyush Goyal on the issue of Subansiri Lower Dam and said that it would be sorted out politically with his Assam counterpart Sarbanda Sonowal, the communiqué added.