Ladakh to get hydroelectric power project

Jammu -- The high-altitude region of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir is to get a medium hydroelectric project within four years, said an official.

The state government has assigned the Nimoo Bazgo Hydro Electric Project to the National Hydro-Electric Projects Corporation (NHPC), said a government spokesperson Friday on condition of anonymity.

The proposed 45 MW power project aims to electrify Ladakh, known as the 'rooftop of India', and harness the hydropower potential of Indus river in Leh district.

The district, which currently has only 8.5 MW of hydropower, is also dependent on diesel generators, which an expensive. Leh has an area of 45,110 sq km and its total population is 117,637, which is spread over 112 villages.

The government hopes that the Nimoo Bazgo project will enrich the Ladakh region's tourism potential as well. Leh, known for its spectacular high and barren mountains, attracts nearly 30,000 foreign tourists annually.

The project site is located near Alchi village, about 70 km from Leh town. The estimated cost of the project is Rs.7.6 billion.

The plant is to generate 239.33 million units (MU) of power annually and is designed to provide a minimum of 14 MW during winter months, when the water levels recede.

"The increased energy availability due to the project would help boost the tourism industry, which will further help in the socio-economic development of the area. Hydropower would also reduce the use of diesel generators, thus reducing emission of various harmful gases and carbon dioxide," the spokesperson added.