NHPC Limited has officially commissioned the 600 MW Kameng Hydroelectric Project in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in the state's energy development roadmap. The project, which commenced construction in 2010, has been developed at a total cost of Rs 7,562 crore and is expected to generate approximately 2,600 million units (MU) of electricity annually.
The run-of-the-river project harnesses the flow of the Bichom and Tenga rivers through a complex system of tunnels, an underground powerhouse, and a 96-metre high concrete gravity dam. NHPC CMD R.K. Vishnoi stated that the project will contribute significantly to India's renewable energy targets while providing 12% free power to Arunachal Pradesh as per the state's entitlement.
The project has also delivered substantial local benefits, including the construction of 45 km of approach roads, two bridges, a 132 kV transmission line, and a community development fund of Rs 120 crore for the affected villages in the Kameng basin.
