1. Latest News
On 20th August 2025, the Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (APSPCB) conducted an Environmental Public Hearing for the 1200 MW Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project in Anjaw district.
The project is being developed by THDC India Limited (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd.).
Over 350 project-affected people from 33 villages participated, raising concerns about land compensation, employment opportunities, and local development.
Majority supported the project, with Minister Dasanglu Pul urging acceptance, citing Tehri Dam as a successful model.
Deputy Commissioner Millo Kojin assured that all concerns would be recorded and announced that village representatives will visit Tehri Dam to witness benefits.
2. About Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project
Location: Lohit River (tributary of Brahmaputra), Anjaw District, Arunachal Pradesh.
Developer/Owner: THDC India Limited.
Type: Run-of-the-river with pondage project.
Installed Capacity: 1200 MW (6 turbines × 190 MW each).
Dam Type: Concrete gravity dam with upstream & downstream coffer dams.
Components: Diversion tunnel, intake tunnel, pressure shafts, underground powerhouse, surge chamber, tailrace tunnel.
Reservoir Capacity: 318.8 million cubic meters.
Gross Head: 125 m.
3. Importance of the Project
Energy Security: Boosts India’s renewable energy mix.
Regional Development: Employment, infrastructure, roads, schools, health centers.
Strategic Importance: Hydropower potential in North-East is crucial for India’s energy transition.
4. Concerns Raised
Fair land compensation.
Employment assurance for locals.
Environmental impact on river ecology and biodiversity.
Resettlement and rehabilitation of affected families.
5. Government & Developer’s Assurances
Concerns to be duly addressed under legal provisions.
Exposure visit to Tehri Dam for local representatives.
Commitment to mitigation strategies mentioned in CEIA report.
UPSC Relevance
Prelims
Location: Lohit River, Anjaw District, Arunachal Pradesh.
Type: Run-of-the-river with pondage.
Capacity: 1200 MW (6 × 190 MW).
Reservoir Capacity: 318.8 MCM.
Mains (GS-II & GS-III)
GS-II: Role of public hearings in environmental governance and community participation.
GS-III: Issues of sustainable development, displacement, ecological impacts, and balancing energy needs with environmental conservation.
Essay Paper: “Hydropower projects: Development versus Displacement.”
FAQs on Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project
Q1. On which river is the Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project planned?
Ans: On the Lohit River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, in Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh.
Q2. What is the total installed capacity of Kalai-II?
Ans: 1200 MW (6 turbines × 190 MW).
Q3. What type of project is Kalai-II?
Ans: A run-of-the-river with pondage hydroelectric project.
Q4. What is the gross head and reservoir capacity of the project?
Ans: Gross head – 125 m; Reservoir capacity – 318.8 million cubic meters.
Q5. Which PSU is developing the project?
Ans: THDC India Limited (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd.).
Summary for Aspirants:
The Kalai-II Project is a significant hydropower initiative in Arunachal Pradesh with potential benefits in energy and regional development. However, issues like land compensation, employment, and ecological impact need careful handling. For UPSC, focus on location, features, environmental governance process, and development challenges.
