WCA January 2014

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Hydroelectric
project delayed by
objectors
ASSAM’S chief minister, Tarun Gogoi, has said that the
National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has
agreed to a modification of the design of its 2,000MW
Lower Subansari hydroelectric project. The work has faced
stiff opposition from anti-dam groups, and construction has
been placed on hold for some time.
The chief minister said: “As per the recommendation of
Thatte committee, an independent dam design review panel
was formed. It has proposed some additional safety
measures in the construction of the dam. Now, NHPC has
been asked to modify the design of the dam.”
Mr Gogoi added that recommendations from the panel
followed the examination of issues such as foundation
competency, seismic aspect, dam design and existing
ground conditions. A joint steering committee was formed
by NHPC in 2011 to suggest feasible and practical remedial
measures in downstream areas with reference to the expert
group’s recommendations along with flood, bank erosion
and sediment control issues.
The chief minister added that the power situation in Assam
will improve dramatically with the anticipated 240MW from
the Palatana power project in Tripura.
“Immediately we are going to get 90MW of power from [the]
Palatana project, but from next year we are going to receive
240MW of power from the project,” he said, adding that he
was also keen to initiate talks with Bhutan for power to meet
the growing power demand in Assam.
National Hydroelectric Power Corporation – India
Website:
India
Insight
❍ Work underway at the Lower Subansari project. Photograph
courtesy of
40 Wire & Cable ASIA – January/February 2014