Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein chaired a high-level review meeting this week to assess the progress of ongoing power transmission initiatives under the Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening of Transmission and Distribution Systems. The meeting came as three significant transmission projects were successfully commissioned, marking a step forward in the state’s ambitious plan to ensure reliable electricity access across its challenging terrain.
Held in Itanagar, the meeting brought together senior officials from the Department of Power, executing agencies, and project contractors. The review aimed at identifying bottlenecks, accelerating pending works, and reinforcing the government’s commitment to electrification, especially in remote and border areas.
Three Projects Commissioned, Many More in Pipeline
During the meeting, Deputy CM Mein—who also holds the Power portfolio—announced the commissioning of three new transmission lines and substations in strategically important locations. These include:
- 132kV Roing–Tezu Transmission Line
- 132/33kV Substation at Pasighat
- 33kV Distribution Network in Tawang District
The completion of these projects, officials said, will greatly reduce transmission losses, stabilize voltage, and improve the quality of power supply in their respective regions. Most importantly, they will enable 24×7 electricity in underserved areas, supporting both households and small industries.
A Vision for Energy Resilience
Deputy CM Mein, addressing the gathering, emphasized that reliable power infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth in Arunachal Pradesh. “Electricity is not just about lighting homes—it powers education, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, and industries. For a state like ours, with scattered populations and hilly terrain, strong transmission lines are essential for inclusive development,” he said.
He also called upon all stakeholders—government officials, contractors, and local authorities—to work in coordination and ensure timely completion of the remaining packages under the comprehensive scheme.
The Comprehensive Scheme: Bridging Gaps
The ongoing power transmission push falls under the North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP), a flagship initiative supported by the Government of India and the World Bank. It seeks to upgrade and expand the power infrastructure in all eight northeastern states, with a special focus on reliability and last-mile connectivity.
In Arunachal Pradesh, where many villages remain cut off from central grids due to mountainous geography, the scheme includes high-capacity transmission lines, substations, and distribution transformers—a combination aimed at transforming the state’s energy profile.
Out of the 48 sanctioned packages, 32 have already been awarded, and physical progress on the ground is visible. “With steady commissioning, we are gradually reducing our dependence on diesel generators and unstable power sources,” said a senior engineer from the state Power Department.
Challenges Remain
Despite the momentum, Deputy CM Mein acknowledged the hurdles—ranging from difficult terrain and inclement weather to land acquisition issues and contractor delays. In particular, he flagged the need for better coordination between district administrations and executing agencies.
“Time is of the essence. Arunachal is on the cusp of industrial expansion, and power has to lead that journey,” he said, adding that clear deadlines and accountability mechanisms are being set in place.
He also urged local communities to cooperate with authorities in facilitating access to construction sites, noting that the benefits of power development ultimately flow back to the people.
Future Outlook
The state government plans to commission 10 more substations and over 400 km of transmission lines by early 2026, with priority being given to border villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme. Officials also hinted at the possibility of integrating solar and mini-hydro systems into the larger transmission grid, creating a hybrid energy network tailored to the state’s geography.
A Step Toward Self-Reliance
With the commissioning of these three key projects, Arunachal Pradesh is inching closer to its goal of power self-reliance and rural electrification. As Deputy CM Mein put it, “Every pole we raise and every substation we energize brings us one step closer to our dream of a modern, connected, and empowered Arunachal.”
The lights are indeed coming on—across valleys, ridges, and borders—and with them, the promise of progress.