The Project Affected Peoples Forum (PAPF) in Arunachal Pradesh has recently called on NHPC Ltd to reinstate all local workers who were previously engaged in the Etalin Hydroelectric Project (HEP). This appeal follows the Centre's decision to transfer the project from SJVN Limited to NHPC.
The Etalin Hydroelectric Project is a significant 3,097 MW hydropower initiative planned on the Dri and Talo rivers, which are tributaries of the Dibang River in Arunachal Pradesh's Dibang Valley. This project stands as one of the largest hydropower ventures in India concerning installed capacity.
The project aims to utilize a combination of two run-of-the-river schemes and is being developed by NHPC Limited (previously known as the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation). It will incorporate two concrete gravity dams—one on the Dri River and another on the Talo (Tangon) River. An underground powerhouse is planned to be situated near their confluence, close to Etalin village.
The Etalin Hydroelectric Project is expected to generate approximately 12,752 GWh of electricity annually. This significant output will contribute to India's renewable energy goals and help meet the growing energy demands.
The project area is located within the “richest bio-geographical province of the Himalayan zone” and is recognized as “one of the mega biodiversity hotspots of the world.” This rich biodiversity is home to various species, making environmental conservation a critical concern.
Moreover, the region is predominantly inhabited by indigenous populations, including the Idu-Mishmi tribes. The involvement of local communities in project planning and execution is essential to ensure that their rights and livelihoods are protected.
Q1. What is the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
Answer: The Etalin Hydroelectric Project is a 3,097 MW hydropower initiative in Arunachal Pradesh, designed to harness the Dri and Talo rivers for electricity generation.
Q2. Who is responsible for the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
Answer: The project is being executed by NHPC Limited, which was previously known as the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation.
Q3. What are the expected environmental impacts of the project?
Answer: The project is located in a biodiversity hotspot, raising concerns about the preservation of local ecosystems and the rights of indigenous communities.
Q4. How much electricity will the project generate?
Answer: The Etalin Hydroelectric Project is expected to generate around 12,752 GWh of electricity annually.
Q5. Why did the local workforce raise concerns?
Answer: The Project Affected Peoples Forum has urged NHPC Ltd to reinstate local workers previously engaged in the project after its transfer from SJVN Limited.
Question 1: What is the capacity of the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
A) 1,500 MW
B) 3,097 MW
C) 5,000 MW
D) 2,000 MW
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which rivers are involved in the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
A) Brahmaputra and Talo
B) Dri and Talo
C) Dibang and Dri
D) Ganges and Yamuna
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which company is executing the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
A) SJVN Limited
B) NHPC Limited
C) Tata Power
D) NTPC Limited
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the primary concern raised by the local community regarding the project?
A) Environmental degradation
B) Loss of biodiversity
C) Reinstatement of local workers
D) Inadequate energy generation
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: How much electricity is the project expected to generate annually?
A) 10,000 GWh
B) 12,752 GWh
C) 15,000 GWh
D) 8,500 GWh
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which tribe predominantly inhabits the area of the Etalin Hydroelectric Project?
A) Khasi
B) Idu-Mishmi
C) Naga
D) Bodo
Correct Answer: B
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