SHILLONG, OCT 23: Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal stated that the Riangdo power project is ongoing, with work progressing.
The initial plan is for 3 megawatts in the first phase, with potential for expansion if funds become available. Some components of the project are completed, while others, like the penstock and powerhouse, are still pending.
“The idea was for 3 megawatts in the first phase, and if funds are available later, we would consider further enhancement,” Mondal said. While some components have been completed, including the wiring and channel work, critical aspects such as the penstock and powerhouse are still pending.
He further explained that MePDCL conducted a study which revealed the possibility of increasing the project’s capacity to 6MW based on the available water supply. “We asked them to prepare the detailed project report (DPR),” he added.
In collaboration with NTPC, the project details, including estimates, have been submitted to IIT Roorkee for evaluation. “If it is feasible, we will go for augmentation to 6MW with minimal extra work, though the cost for penstock, turbine, powerhouse, and transmission will increase,” Mondal informed.
He elaborated on adjustments to the design, stating, “Earlier, it was a project of 1.5×2 MW, but now we think it should be 3×2 MW. The turbines will remain the same—two units—so this will minimize the extension of the powerhouse.”
Regarding the feasibility of the plan, Mondal emphasized, “If it is not feasible, we will proceed with the current plan, but if it is, we’ll move forward with the enhancement.”
The estimated cost for the 3MW project currently stands at over Rs 40 crore.