The Arunachal Pradesh government has terminated 22 sanctioned hydro-electric projects with a potential to generate 3,800 MW due to non-performance. Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu disclosed this while inaugurating the 24MW Dikshi Hydroelectric Project at Rupa in West Kameng district recently.
Developed by Devi Energies Private Limited, it is the first hydro power project to be developed in the State by a private company. ‘The State government has already terminated 22 projects worth 3,800 MW for non performance while another 46 more worth 8,000 MW approximately have been served notices.’
He also stated that the government would take a strong stand on several private firms that have failed in developing hydropower projects even though MoUs (memorandums of understanding) were signed several years ago. ‘These players have lost the confidence of the people. Department reviews are being conducted in regular intervals and action is being taken against those power developers found non-performing.’
Arunachal Pradesh is known for its immense hydropower potential. Khandu stated that no hydropower project would be developed in the State without consultations and consent of locals and urged people not to fall prey to rumours on such projects by ‘issue mongers’. ‘It is time that we change our mindset and think about what is good for us. Clean and green energy can change the economy of the State and the region.’
