Subansiri Lower Project nears completion; Union Power Secy leads high-level review

Itanagar, Jul 20: A high-level delegation led by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), Govt of India, visited the NHPC's Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (2000 MW) at Dollungmukh along Arunachal Pradesh-Assam boundary on Sunday to assess the final stages of India’s largest hydroelectric venture, which is nearing commissioning.

Agarwal was accompanied by NHPC Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Rajendra Prasad Goyal, and Director (Projects) Sanjay Kumar Singh. The dignitaries conducted an on-site review of the project’s progress and assessed final preparations to ensure its smooth and timely commissioning process.

The visiting dignitaries were warmly received by local MLA Rotom Tebin, ZPM (Dollungmukh) Nido Aruni Bini, and senior citizens of the region. Speaking on the occasion, Tebin highlighted the strategic and economic importance of the Subansiri Lower Project, both for the state and the nation. He also briefed the delegation on the upcoming 1700 MW Kamala Hydroelectric Project in Kamle district, another key initiative under NHPC.

Importantly, the MLA made a strong appeal to the delegation to prioritize the Tamen–Dollungmukh Road Project, terming it essential for the timely execution of the Kamala HEP. He emphasized that the road is a critical infrastructure link that will not only facilitate the Kamala project but also enhance regional connectivity and development across Kamle district.

In response, Pankaj Agarwal assured full support from the Ministry of Power, expressing the Centre’s commitment to the expedited development of the Tamen–Dollungmukh road. He affirmed that the Ministry would coordinate closely with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to fast-track the road project, recognizing its significance for the future of hydroelectric development and regional infrastructure.

Siang Basin Projects

On Saturday, the Union Power Secretary, along with the NHPC CMD and Director (Projects), visited the NHPC Siang Basin Projects office at Pasighat, East Siang, as part of his ongoing review of major hydroelectric initiatives in the Northeast.

During the visit, Agarwal held a comprehensive meeting with the project team to assess the progress of ongoing survey and pre-construction works.

He acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the employees, and emphasized the importance of timely execution of the project. He lauded the dedication and professionalism of NHPC employees and urged them to maintain their momentum to achieve the set milestones.

In line with NHPC’s 50th anniversary celebrations, Agarwal and the dignitaries planted fruit-bearing saplings within the project office premises, symbolizing NHPC’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.