Itanagar: Arunahcal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday dedicated the Sumbachu Small Hydropower Project (SHP) at Zemithang village, some 92 km from the district headquarters, to the people of the state.
The 2X1.5 MW power station has been built by the state-owned Hydro Power Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Limited (HPDCAPL).
Speaking at the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony Khandu said the project is a dream come true for the civilian population of Zemithang and nearby areas as well as the Indian Army positioned in the border.
“While the area is off-grid, power requirements reach the peak during winters. Functioning of this SHP will bring succor to the people. I congratulate HPDCAPL for completing the project efficiently on time,” he said.
Incidentally, the Sumbachu SHP is the first commissioned project of HPDCAPL, which endeavors to generate at least 3000 MW through small and mini hydro power projects in the state by 2030.
Advocating similar projects in various locations of the state, Khandu said small and stand-alone hydropower projects are the best solution to power requirements especially in remote areas which are off the grid including border outposts.
“I have directed the state’s hydro power department to survey across the state where similar power generating stations can be built. We are committed to provide power supply to every village of the state,” he added.
Khandu, on the day, also inaugurated a newly established museum-cum-library at Gorzan Choeten, one of the largest stupas in Asia.
Present on the occasion, among others were Thegtse Rimpoche, advisor to hydro power minister Balo Raja, local legislator Jambey Tashi, HPDCAPL CMD Toko Onuj, 190 Mountain Brigade Commander Brig Vijaykumar R Jagtap and Tawang deputy commissioner Sang Phuntsok. (CMMC)
