Arunachal’s 1000MW Naying Hydroelectric Project to Face Public Review on November 12

Arunachal’s 1000MW Naying Hydroelectric Project to Face Public Review on November 12

The Shi-Yomi district administration has announced an environmental public hearing for the 1000MW Naying hydroelectric project. Scheduled for November 12 at Yapik community hall, the hearing invites local residents to discuss the project’s environmental and social impacts. The project is part of Arunachal Pradesh’s ambitious hydro power expansion plan under the Decade of Hydro Power (2025-35).

Project Overview

The Naying hydroelectric project is a run-of-the-river scheme on the Siyom (Yomgo) river. It will have four units of 250MW each, totalling 1000MW capacity. The project is expected to generate approximately 4,966.77 GWh of electricity annually. NEEPCO (North Eastern Electric Power Corporation) is the implementing agency.

Timeline and Construction

Initially cleared by the Central Electricity Authority in 2013, the project faced delays due to environmental and social concerns. Construction is now expected to begin around 2028. It will include a concrete dam, underground powerhouse, and tunnels. Commissioning is targeted for 2032.

Environmental and Social Concerns

The project requires diversion of forest land, impacting tens of thousands of trees. Local communities have raised concerns about ecological disruption and displacement. Protests have delayed progress, denoting the need for careful environmental management and community engagement.

Regional Hydro Power Context

Naying is one of five major hydroelectric projects in Shi-Yomi district. Others include Heo (240MW), Hirong (500MW), Tato-I (186MW), and Tato-II (700MW). Together, these projects contribute to Arunachal Pradesh’s goal of increasing hydroelectric capacity and supporting India’s net-zero emissions targets.

Government Initiatives and Partnerships

Recently, the state government approved joint ventures between NEEPCO and Arunachal Pradesh Hydropower Corporation Ltd. This collaboration aims to accelerate project development under the Decade of Hydro Power (2025-35). The initiative targets 19GW of hydro capacity, attracting investments and generating employment.

Strategic Importance

The Naying project aligns with India’s broader renewable energy goals. It supports energy security in the northeast region and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. The project also promotes sustainable development by utilising river flow without large reservoirs, minimising displacement.

This article is part of our Environment Current Affairs [PDF E-Book / 1 Year] compilation.
📥 Download the full PDF here

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *