The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday approved an investment of ₹3,689 crore for the construction of two hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi Yomi district. Both projects are expected to be completed within 50 months.
An outlay of ₹1,939 crore has been sanctioned for the Heo Hydroelectric Project (HEP), while ₹1,750 crore has been approved for the Tato-I Hydroelectric Project (HEP), according to an official statement issued after the CCEA meeting.
The Heo Hydroelectric Project (HEP), with an installed capacity of 240 MW (3 x 80 MW), is expected to generate 1,000 Million Units (MU) of energy annually. The power produced will enhance the electricity supply in Arunachal Pradesh and contribute to balancing the national grid.
The Tato-I Hydroelectric Project (HEP), with an installed capacity of 186 MW (3 x 62 MW), will generate 802 MU of energy annually, further strengthening the state’s power infrastructure and the national grid.
Both projects will be implemented through a joint venture between the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd. (NEEPCO) and the government of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Government of India will extend budgetary support of ₹127.28 crore and ₹77.37 crore for the Heo and Tato-I projects, respectively, to facilitate the construction of roads, bridges, and associated transmission lines under enabling infrastructure. Additionally, Central Financial Assistance of ₹130.43 crore and ₹120.43 crore has been approved for the equity share of the state in the respective projects.
The projects will offer Arunachal Pradesh 12% free power and an additional 1% for the Local Area Development Fund (LADF). These measures aim to drive significant socio-economic development and infrastructure improvements in the region.
Infrastructure enhancements include the development of around 10 kilometers of roads and bridges, primarily for local use. Dedicated project funds of ₹15 crore will finance essential facilities such as hospitals, schools, vocational training institutes like ITIs, marketplaces, and playgrounds.
The projects are expected to generate substantial employment during construction and operation phases. Approximately 200 personnel from NEEPCO and around 400 workers from contractors will be engaged during construction. Indirect employment opportunities will arise through small contracts, services, and various allied activities.
In addition to direct employment, the projects will stimulate economic activity in transportation, tourism, and small-scale businesses, contributing to the region’s growth. Local communities will also benefit from compensations, CSR initiatives, and vocational training programs.
The hydroelectric projects align with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan by promoting local enterprise involvement, eco-friendly energy generation, and self-reliance.
(Inputs from IANS)
