India's Bold Move: Unlocking the Power of the Brahmaputra
A River's Potential: Unveiling a Masterplan
As China embarks on an ambitious dam project on the Brahmaputra River, India is not sitting idle. The country has crafted a comprehensive strategy to harness the immense hydropower potential of the Brahmaputra basin, aiming to generate an impressive 65 GW of electricity. This move is a strategic response to China's activities and a significant step towards energy independence.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the Brahmaputra basin holds the key to an astonishing 64,945 MW of hydropower potential, including projects above 25 MW. Currently, only a fraction of this potential is being utilized, with 4,807 MW already in operation and another 2,000 MW under construction. The CEA's Master Plan for Evacuation of Power from Hydroelectric Plants in Brahmaputra aims to revolutionize this landscape.
A Massive Undertaking
The Master Plan envisions an extensive transmission system, including 31,000 circuit kilometers of power lines, 68 Gigavolt-Ampere of transformation capacity, and 42 Giga Watt of HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current). This ambitious project is divided into two phases, with the first phase targeting completion by 2035 and the second phase extending beyond that year. The estimated cost of this endeavor is a staggering Rs 6.42 lakh crore.
The Brahmaputra's Journey
Originating in the Kailash ranges of the Himalayas, the Brahmaputra River flows for approximately 300 kilometers in Tibet, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo. It then enters India near Shirang in Arunachal Pradesh, where it takes on the name Siang. Along with its tributaries, such as Dibang, Lohit, and Subansiri, the river meanders through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam before crossing into Bangladesh. Here, it joins the Ganga, taking on the names Jamuna and Padma.
Sub-Basins and Their Significance
In India, the Brahmaputra basin is divided into 12 sub-basins, with Dibang, Siang, Lohit, Subansiri, Kameng, Teesta, and Barak considered the major ones. The Master Plan aims to provide a clear roadmap for developers to harness the power potential of these sub-basins effectively.
A Critical Need
CEA officials emphasize that with the vast hydro potential of 65 GW across these sub-basins, a robust transmission system is essential. Vijay Kumar Singh, CEA member (power systems), writes in the report's foreword, "Given the immense hydro potential, the need for a comprehensive transmission system to evacuate power from these hydroelectric projects became critical." The plan's phasing aligns with the implementation timelines of the hydroelectric plants, ensuring a coordinated approach.
Countering China's Move
In response to China's hydropower dam projects in Tibet, India has proposed the Upper Siang multipurpose project, with a capacity of 11,200 MW, in Arunachal Pradesh. However, this project has faced delays due to local opposition, highlighting the challenges of balancing development with environmental and social concerns.
Energy Needs of the North-East Region
The peak electricity demand of the seven north-east region (NER) states is projected to reach 9 GW by 2036-37. As of March 2025, the total installed generating capacity in NER stood at 5,516 MW, primarily from hydro and gas plants. A CEA report from November 2022 assessed that the Brahmputra basin holds exploitable potential for 206 large hydroelectric projects, with a total hydro potential of 62,726.7 MW.
Renewable Energy Landscape in India
The North East Regional Electricity Grid covers Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. As of March 2025, India's renewable energy installed capacity stood at an impressive 172.37 GW. This includes 50 GW of wind power, 105.65 GW of solar, 11.58 GW of bio-power and waste power, and 5.1 GW of small hydro plants.
A Controversial Move?
India's masterplan to harness the Brahmaputra's power has the potential to spark debate. While it offers a strategic response to China's activities, it also raises questions about environmental impact and local communities' rights. What are your thoughts on this ambitious project? Should India prioritize energy independence over potential environmental concerns? Share your views in the comments!
