Hydroelectric Project

The Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project has been a subject of intense debate and protest, especially following recent demonstrations in Daporijo, Arunachal Pradesh.

Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project:

Project Overview:

• Location: The project is planned on the Subansiri River in Arunachal Pradesh, which is part of the Brahmaputra River Basin.

• Installed Capacity: The project aims to generate 1,800 MW of hydropower.

• Expected Completion: The project is slated to enter commercial operation by 2031.

• Ownership and Development: It is being developed by KSK Upper Subansiri Hydro Energy (a subsidiary of KSK Energy Ventures).

• Gross Head: The project will have a gross head of 199.5 meters, which indicates the height difference between the water source and the turbine, crucial for its power generation efficiency.

• Electricity Generation: The project is expected to generate approximately 6,581.29 GWh of electricity annually.

• Cost: Estimated at $2,346.87 million, or approximately ?18,000 crore.

Key Features of the Subansiri River:

• Origin: The Subansiri River originates from the western part of Mount Porom (5059 m) in the Tibetan Himalayas. It is a Trans-Himalayan river.

• Importance: Known as the Gold River, the Subansiri is famous for carrying gold dust in its waters.

• Tributaries: Some key tributaries of the river include Laro, Nye, Yume, Tsari, Kamla, Jiyadhol, Ranganadi, and Dikrong.

• Confluence with Brahmaputra: The Subansiri joins the Brahmaputra River in the Lakhimpur district of Assam.

• Geographical Coverage: The river flows through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, making it a transnational watercourse.

Conclusion:

The Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project presents a complex challenge of balancing economic growth and energy production with environmental conservation, tribal rights, and local concerns. The protests in Daporijo underscore the deep-seated resistance from local communities, especially those who feel that their environment, livelihood, and culture could be compromised by the project.