Kamala Hydroelectric Project
Why in news?
The Kamala Hydroelectric Project is a 1,720 MW storage-based hydropower scheme on the Kamala River in Arunachal Pradesh. Approved in January 2026 with an investment of about ₹26,070 crore, it will generate nearly 6,870 million units of green energy annually and also provide flood moderation benefits to the Brahmaputra valley.
Key Facts about the Kamala Hydroelectric Project
- Location: Kamle, Kra Daadi, and Kurung Kumey districts of Arunachal Pradesh
- River: Kamala River, a major tributary of the Subansiri River
- Capacity: 1,720 MW
- Annual Generation: 6,869.92 million units (MU) of renewable energy
- Investment: ₹26,069.50 crore approved by the Public Investment Board (PIB)
- Ownership: NHPC (74% equity) and Arunachal Pradesh Government (26%)
- Completion Timeline: 8 years
- Infrastructure:
- 216-metre high concrete gravity dam
- Underground powerhouse
- Implementation Model: Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis
Importance
- Energy Transition: Supports India’s Net Zero target by 2070 by adding large-scale renewable capacity.
- Flood Moderation: Designed to reduce flood risks in the Brahmaputra Valley, enhancing climate resilience.
- Regional Development: Expected to boost infrastructure, employment, and energy security in Arunachal Pradesh.
Challenges & Considerations
- Environmental Concerns: Large dams in Arunachal often face opposition due to ecological sensitivity and seismic risks.
- Displacement Issues: Potential resettlement of local communities.
- Execution Risks: 8-year timeline may face delays due to terrain, weather, and logistical challenges.
- Geopolitical Sensitivity: Arunachal Pradesh borders China, making infrastructure projects strategically significant.
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