In a major push to boost Arunachal Pradesh’s power infrastructure, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein chaired a high-level review meeting on the Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening the Transmission and Distribution (T&D) System at the DC’s Conference Hall in Namsai on Wednesday.
The marathon meeting, which lasted over five hours from 3 PM to 8:30 PM, focused on expediting the implementation of the state-wide T&D project aimed at ensuring reliable power supply, particularly to remote and underserved areas.
During the meeting, Deputy CM Mein took stock of the project’s current status, reviewed the progress made so far, and sought explanations for existing delays. Stressing the importance of a timely and coordinated approach, he said that the successful implementation of this scheme is critical to meeting Arunachal Pradesh’s growing energy demands.
“In recent years, we have significantly accelerated the development of the power sector in Arunachal Pradesh. Recently, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Power Steering Committee held a meaningful discussion in Tawang to fast-track hydropower projects,” Mein stated.
He emphasised the need for a robust transmission and distribution network to support the state’s ongoing and upcoming hydropower initiatives. “With several hydropower projects underway, our T&D infrastructure must be ready for immediate evacuation and distribution of power,” he said.
Calling for swift action, the Deputy CM directed the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. (PGCIL) to fast-track all pending work and ensure timely completion of the scheme. He also emphasized close coordination among PGCIL, the district administration, the Power Department, and local legislators to facilitate smooth on-ground execution.
The meeting also marked a key milestone, with officials informing that three major components under the scheme—namely, the 33 kV side of the 132 kV Niglok Sub-station, the 33 kV Niglok–Ruskin Line, and the 33 kV Oyan Sub-station—were successfully commissioned on the same day.
The session reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a resilient power infrastructure that will support sustainable growth, ensure energy security, and enhance the quality of life for citizens across the state.
Among the dignitaries present were Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu, Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor, Advisor to Minister (Power) Jikke Tako, and MLAs Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Mutchu Mithi, Hayeng Mangfi, Tenzin Nyima Glow, Tseten Chombay, Topin Ete, Pesi Jilen, Rotom Tebin, and Nyabi Jini Dirchi. Also in attendance were CMD PGCIL R.K. Tyagi, PCCF P. Subramanium, Advisor to DCM Anupam Tangu, Secretary (Power) R.K. Sharma, Deputy Commissioners, Chief Engineers, and senior officials from PowerGrid. (pr)