India has officially initiated construction of the Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh, set to become the country’s tallest dam at 278 metres. The project, led by NHPC, marks a milestone in India’s hydroelectric and water management efforts.
NHPC has floated a global bid worth ₹17,069 crore for building the main structure, with completion targeted by 2032. The project carries a total cost of ₹31,875 crore and is designed to generate 2,880 megawatts of power, producing an estimated 11,223 million units of electricity annually. Alongside power generation, the dam will also serve a crucial role in flood moderation with a storage capacity of 1,282 million cubic metres. Arunachal Pradesh is expected to gain ₹700 crore annually from free power allocations.
Strategically, the Dibang project is positioned as a safeguard against potential challenges from sudden water releases at China’s Motuo Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo, thereby strengthening India’s water security in the region.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu, accompanied by NHPC officials, recently inspected the site and reiterated the state’s commitment to ensuring timely progress. The project is expected to boost regional development, energy security, and resilience against natural disasters.
