Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has called the Dibang Multipurpose Project “more than just a megawatt generator,” emphasizing its transformative potential for employment, infrastructure, and long-term economic development in the northeastern state. Speaking at a press briefing in Itanagar on September 1, 2025, Khandu said the 2,880 MW hydropower project in Lower Dibang Valley is poised to become a cornerstone of Arunachal’s growth story.
The Dibang project, being developed by NHPC Limited, is India’s largest hydropower initiative and has received forest clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. With an estimated investment of ₹31,875 crore, the project is expected to generate not only clean energy but also thousands of direct and indirect jobs, boost local entrepreneurship, and enhance connectivity in remote tribal areas.
🧭 Dibang Hydropower Project: Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Installed Capacity | 2,880 MW |
| Developer | NHPC Limited |
| Location | Lower Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh |
| Estimated Investment | ₹31,875 crore |
| Project Type | Multipurpose (Power + Flood Control) |
| Expected Completion | 2030 |
| Forest Clearance Status | Approved |
| Employment Potential | 8,000+ jobs (direct & indirect) |
The project includes construction of a 278-meter-high concrete gravity dam, making it one of the tallest in India.
🔍 CM’s Vision: Beyond Energy Generation
Chief Minister Khandu stressed that the Dibang project is not just about electricity—it’s about empowering communities and unlocking Arunachal’s economic potential.
| Development Area | Impact of Dibang Project |
|---|---|
| Employment | Local hiring, skill development |
| Infrastructure | Roads, bridges, housing near project site |
| Revenue Generation | Royalty from power sales, land lease income |
| Tribal Welfare | Resettlement packages, education, healthcare |
| Tourism | Eco-tourism around reservoir and dam |
Khandu said, “This is not just a power project. It’s a people’s project. It will bring jobs, funds, and opportunities to our youth and entrepreneurs.”
📉 Environmental and Social Safeguards
The Dibang project has faced scrutiny over its environmental impact, given its location in a biodiversity-rich region. However, NHPC and the state government have assured that robust safeguards are in place.
| Safeguard Type | Measures Implemented |
|---|---|
| Forest Compensation | Afforestation in double the diverted area |
| Wildlife Protection | Biodiversity monitoring, wildlife corridors |
| Tribal Resettlement | Compensation, housing, livelihood support |
| Water Flow Management | Environmental flow release, flood control |
The project has been designed to minimize displacement and ensure sustainable development.
🔥 Economic Multiplier Effect
According to the Arunachal Planning Department, the Dibang project will have a multiplier effect on the state’s economy, especially in the eastern districts.
| Sector | Expected Growth Due to Dibang Project |
|---|---|
| Construction | Cement, steel, logistics demand surge |
| Services | Hospitality, retail, transport expansion |
| Agriculture | Irrigation support, market access |
| Education & Training | Skill centers, technical institutes |
The state government is also planning to set up a Hydropower Training Institute in Roing to build a skilled workforce.
🧠 Expert Opinions on Dibang’s Impact
| Expert Name | Role | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Rakesh Sinha | Energy Economist | “Dibang is a game-changer for Northeast India.” |
| Prof. Meera Iyer | Environmental Policy Analyst | “The project must balance growth with ecology.” |
| Rajiv Bansal | Infrastructure Consultant | “It will redefine Arunachal’s connectivity and employment.” |
Experts agree that Dibang’s success could pave the way for more integrated development models in hilly states.
📦 Timeline and Milestones
The Dibang project is currently in the pre-construction phase, with land acquisition and site preparation underway.
| Milestone | Status / Timeline |
|---|---|
| Forest Clearance | Approved (2025) |
| Land Acquisition | 80% completed |
| Construction Start | Expected Q1 2026 |
| Dam Completion | Targeted by 2029 |
| Power Generation Begins | Full capacity by 2030 |
The state government has formed a high-level monitoring committee to oversee progress and address local concerns.
📌 Conclusion
The Dibang Multipurpose Project is more than a hydropower initiative—it’s a blueprint for inclusive development in Arunachal Pradesh. With Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s vision and NHPC’s execution, the project promises to deliver clean energy, economic upliftment, and regional integration. As India moves toward a greener future, Dibang stands as a symbol of how infrastructure can empower people and protect nature.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government briefings and project documents as of September 2, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, engineering, or environmental advice.
