NTPC TO SET UP HYDRO PROJECTS IN HP

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Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has accorded techno-economic clearance (TEC) to 800 MW Kol Dam Hydro Electric Project in Himachal Pradesh to be set up by M/s. National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd. (NTPC) at an estimated completed cost of Rs. 5300 crore. The project located in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh envisages utilization of power potential of the Sutlej river for electricity generation. This is the first hydro-electric project being taken up for construction by NTPC. The project would involve construction of 163 metres high rock fill dam across the river Sutlej 6 Km. upstream from the existing Dehar Power Station and installation of four units of 200 MW each.

The project was earlier accorded TEC by CEA during August, 1988 for execution in the state sector but could not be taken up for execution due to various reasons. The project is now proposed to be implemented in the central sector by NTPC. The power generated would be evacuated to the power deficient Northern Region through 400 KV integrated transmission system lines constructed for Nathpa Jhakri and Kol Dam projects. The project is programmed to be completed in a period of six and a half years. The height of Kol Dam has been limited to 163 metres to avoid submergence of Suni Township having a population of over 10,000 people. An amount of Rs. 97 crore has been provided for environment and ecology measures, while Rs. 75 crore have been earmarked for resettlement and rehabilitation. The clearance of Ministry of Environment & Forests has been obtained.