Anini/Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – Chief Minister Pema Khandu conducted a detailed review of major hydropower initiatives in Dibang Valley district, reinforcing the state’s drive to fast-track clean energy generation while safeguarding local interests, boosting infrastructure, and advancing national energy security goals.
The high-level discussions with power developers focused on project timelines, regulatory clearances, and strategies to maximize advantages for nearby communities in this remote yet resource-rich Himalayan region.
Key Projects Under Spotlight
The review spotlighted several significant hydropower developments:
- Etalin Hydroelectric Project (3,097 MW) – Currently under implementation and poised to become India’s largest hydroelectric scheme upon completion. Located on the Dri River and developed by SJVN Ltd., it promises transformative impacts including accelerated infrastructure growth, substantial job creation, enhanced local livelihoods, and strengthened national power supply.
- Attunli Hydroelectric Project (680 MW) – Also progressing under implementation.
- Projects in Survey Stage: Emini (500 MW), Amulin (420 MW), and Mihumdon (400 MW).
Collectively, these ventures represent a planned capacity of 5,097 MW, cementing Dibang Valley’s position as a cornerstone in Arunachal Pradesh’s ambitious hydropower portfolio.
Balanced Approach: Timely Delivery Meets Local Priorities
CM Khandu stressed the need for harmonious progress that respects community welfare alongside developmental urgency. “Development must move forward in a manner that balances timely execution with the interests of local communities, while contributing to the nation’s long-term energy needs,” he stated after the meeting.
Discussions covered statutory and environmental clearances, infrastructure reinforcement, and direct benefits for residents through employment opportunities, skill development, and community support measures. The Chief Minister’s emphasis reflects Arunachal’s strategy to harness its vast hydropower potential—among the highest in India—responsibly, ensuring projects deliver sustainable gains without compromising ecological or social harmony.
Site Visit and Broader Development Push
Accompanied by legislators and senior officials, Khandu visited the Etalin project site along the Roing-Anini highway, receiving an in-depth briefing from SJVN representatives on construction updates and upcoming milestones.
This review aligns with recent Cabinet decisions to support large-scale hydropower revival through incentives like SGST reimbursements, further underscoring the government’s proactive stance on energy infrastructure in the Northeast.
Strategic Importance for Arunachal and India
Dibang Valley’s hydropower cluster forms part of Arunachal Pradesh’s broader vision to develop nearly 19 GW of projects over the coming decade, attracting massive investments and positioning the state as a clean energy leader. By prioritizing speedy yet sensitive execution, the administration aims to generate employment, improve connectivity, uplift tribal communities, and contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy targets.
As these projects advance, they hold promise for economic transformation in one of the country’s most strategically vital border districts, blending power generation with inclusive growth and environmental stewardship.
Relevant Tags
Arunachal Pradesh Hydropower, Dibang Valley Projects, Pema Khandu Review, Etalin Hydroelectric Project, Attunli HEP, Clean Energy Arunachal, Local Community Benefits, National Energy Security, SJVN Etalin, Northeast Hydropower Development
Hashtags
#ArunachalHydropower #PemaKhandu #DibangValley #EtalinProject #CleanEnergy #ArunachalPradesh #NortheastPower #HydropowerDevelopment #EnergySecurity #SustainableGrowth
