Government Greenlights Major Hydropower Boost in Northeast India
- Muhammad Ahmad
- Nov 26, 2024
- 2 min read
Government approves investment for sustainable power infrastructure in Shi Yomi district
Two major hydroelectric projects will generate over 1,800 Million Units of energy annually
₹1,939 crore allocated for Heo Hydroelectric Project (240 MW) and ₹1,750 crore for Tato-I Hydroelectric Project (186 MW).
Projects to enhance electricity supply in Arunachal Pradesh and strengthen the national grid.
Infrastructure improvements and socio-economic benefits planned for the region.
The Government of India has approved a ₹3,689 crore investment for constructing two hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh's Shi Yomi district. This decision, endorsed by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marks a significant milestone in advancing the region's energy infrastructure. Both projects are expected to be completed within 50 months, with the Heo Hydroelectric Project receiving ₹1,939 crore and the Tato-I Hydroelectric Project receiving ₹1,750 crore.
These projects are critical for meeting the region’s energy demands and reinforcing the national grid. Together, the two facilities will generate over 1,800 Million Units (MU) of renewable energy annually, contributing to Arunachal Pradesh's power supply and fostering sustainable energy practices aligned with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Technical Focus
India has an estimated hydroelectric potential of over 145,000 MW, with the Northeast region contributing significantly. Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 26% of this capacity, making it a strategic focus for renewable energy expansion. Hydropower not only provides eco-friendly energy but also bolsters grid stability and regional development.
Implemented through a partnership between North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd. (NEEPCO) and the Arunachal Pradesh government, the projects will enhance regional infrastructure. The Heo project, with a capacity of 240 MW, will generate 1,000 MU annually, while the Tato-I project, at 186 MW, will produce 802 MU. The government has allocated ₹127.28 crore and ₹77.37 crore for infrastructure support, including roads and bridges, and approved Central Financial Assistance of ₹130.43 crore and ₹120.43 crore for the state’s equity participation.
Both projects will provide 12% free power to the state and an additional 1% to the Local Area Development Fund. Infrastructure development under the project includes roads, bridges, and local facilities such as schools, hospitals, and vocational training centres. "These measures will significantly uplift the socio-economic standards in the region," noted an official statement.
Beyond direct employment for over 600 individuals during construction, the projects will create extensive indirect opportunities in transportation, small-scale enterprises, and allied services. Local communities will benefit from compensation, vocational training, and CSR programs, further stimulating economic growth.
The initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable development, energy self-reliance, and regional empowerment.