Arunachal Pradesh’s energy and infrastructure landscape, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a substantial investment of Rs. 1,750 crore for the construction of the Tato-I Hydro Electric Project (HEP) in the remote Shi Yomi district. Set to be completed over 50 months, the project marks a major step towards bolstering the state’s energy capabilities while simultaneously contributing to India’s broader green energy agenda.
With an installed capacity of 186 MW (divided into three units of 62 MW), the Tato-I Hydro Project is expected to generate an impressive 802 million units of energy annually. The energy generated from this hydroelectric power will not only enhance the power supply within Arunachal Pradesh but also contribute significantly to the national grid. In a state where power supply has been inconsistent, this project will prove pivotal in ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy future, strengthening the region’s economic prospects. The project, a joint venture between the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd. (NEEPCO) and the Arunachal Pradesh government, will receive extensive support from the central government. A budgetary support of Rs. 77.37 crore has been earmarked for critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and transmission lines, which will not only support the project but also improve local connectivity.
In a gesture aimed at ensuring the community reaps long-term benefits, the project will supply 12% of the generated power for free to the state, while also contributing 1% to the Local Area Development Fund (LADF). Moreover, substantial infrastructure improvements, including roads, hospitals, schools, and vocational training institutes, will transform the region’s socio-economic fabric, driving further growth. For the local population, this project is expected to bring more than just energy; it promises a substantial increase in employment opportunities, skill development, and overall community welfare. With a dedicated allocation of Rs. 15 crore for infrastructure development, the project aligns with the government’s vision to not just power homes but also uplift livelihoods.
The Tato-I Hydro Project is not just an energy initiative; it is a beacon of sustainable development, highlighting how hydroelectric projects can blend economic growth with environmental responsibility. By harnessing the power of Arunachal’s rivers, the project contributes to the country’s renewable energy targets while fostering green jobs and infrastructure. The economic, environmental, and social upliftment provided by such a venture could become a model for other states in the region, underscoring the importance of energy independence and community-oriented development. As the project progresses, it will undoubtedly bring immense change to Arunachal Pradesh, not only powering homes but lighting up the path towards a brighter, more sustainable future for its people.
