Arunachal Pradesh Bets Big on Hydropower: Projects to Boost Economy and Tourism

The Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein, announced that hydropower projects with a capacity of 12,500 MW will commence operations in the state within the next two years. These projects, undertaken by CPSUs such as NHPC and NEEPCO, are expected to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and tourism growth.

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein announced that hydropower projects with a combined installed capacity of 12,500 MW will commence operations in the next two years, according to a statement issued on Wednesday.

These projects will be undertaken by Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), including NHPC, NEEPCO, THDC, and SJVN, he said during the Solung festival celebrations at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district on Tuesday.

Mein highlighted that the projects, phased over the coming years, are expected to meet the power needs of both the state and the nation, and drive rapid economic development. Large dams, being multipurpose projects, will also bring other benefits, such as water regulation and irrigation.

The Deputy Chief Minister also noted that the state will generate significant revenue and employment from these ventures, predicting an annual income of Rs 1,836 crore from equity shares. He emphasized the government's commitment to small hydro projects in border villages, benefiting remote areas and military personnel.

In addition, Mein discussed the state's efforts to boost tourism and economic activities, including the construction of the 218-kilometre Assam-Arunachal railway line passing through the holy site of Parsuram Kund.

(With inputs from agencies.)