Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project (VPHEP)
Why in news?
The Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project (VPHEP) is a 444 MW run-of-river hydropower scheme on the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, developed by THDC India Ltd. Recent news highlights construction milestones alongside site incidents, with commissioning targeted for 2026.​
Key Facts about VPHEP
- Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, between Helang and Pipalkoti on the Alaknanda River (tributary of the Ganga)
- Capacity: 444 MW
- Type: Run-of-river scheme with a 65 m high diversion dam
- Reservoir: Gross storage capacity of 3.63 million cubic meters (live storage 2.47 million cubic meters)
- Developer: THDC India Limited (a joint venture of Govt. of India and Govt. of Uttar Pradesh)
- Connectivity: Nearest railhead – Rishikesh (225 km); Nearest airport – Jolly Grant, Dehradun (240 km)
Project Significance
- Energy Generation: Expected to produce clean electricity for the northern grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Economic Impact: Provides employment during construction and boosts local infrastructure.
- Environmental Aspect: As a run-of-river project, it minimizes large-scale submergence compared to reservoir-based dams.
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