Functions and Responsibilities

The Department of Hydropower Development performs critical functions essential to the planning, development, and management of hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh.

Primary Functions

1. Policy Development and Implementation

DHPD formulates and implements hydropower policies aligned with state and national objectives:

• Hydropower Policies: Develop comprehensive policies governing hydropower development, investment incentives, and project viability
• Regulatory Framework: Create rules and guidelines for project clearances, environmental compliance, and community benefits
• Strategic Planning: Prepare long-term development strategies for hydropower sector growth
• Policy Review: Periodically review and update policies based on sector developments and stakeholder feedback

2. Project Identification and Coordination

Identify and coordinate development of hydropower projects across all basins:

• Basin Studies: Conduct comprehensive basin studies to identify viable projects
• Feasibility Assessment: Evaluate project feasibility (technical, financial, environmental)
• Developer Coordination: Interface between state government and private/public developers
• Concession Agreement: Manage bidding and granting of hydropower concessions
• Project Oversight: Monitor project progress from conception to commissioning

3. Basin-wise Development Management

Manage hydropower development on basin-specific basis with dedicated Chief Engineers:

• Kameng Basin: 1,282.70 MW identified potential
• Subansiri Basin: 11,282.70 MW potential
• Subansiri (Dikrong): 1,116.5 MW potential
• Siang Basin: 18,293 MW potential
• Dibang Basin: Significant unexplored potential
• Lohit Basin: Multiple ongoing projects
• Tawang Basin: Strategic hydropower opportunities

4. Environmental and Social Compliance

Ensure all projects meet stringent environmental and social standards:

• Environmental Clearances: Coordinate with Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
• Forest Approvals: Process forest clearances required for project implementation
• Social Impact Assessment: Conduct Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) for affected communities
• Rehabilitation Policy: Implement R&R (Rehabilitation & Resettlement) policies under RFCTLARR Act 2013
• Community Engagement: Facilitate dialogue between developers and local communities

5. Local Area Development Fund (LADF) Management

Oversee LADF implementation for community benefit:

• LADF Guidelines: Develop and implement LADF guidelines and standards
• Fund Allocation: Ensure proper allocation of 2% of project cost to local area development
• Community Projects: Support infrastructure development in project-affected areas
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Track LADF utilization and project outcomes
• Grievance Redressal: Address community concerns regarding LADF implementation

6. Clearance and Approvals Coordination

Facilitate multi-level approvals required for hydropower projects:

• Concession Committee: Grant hydropower concessions through competitive bidding
• State Level Monitoring Committee (SLMC): Monitor project-specific environmental and social compliance
• State Technical and Empowered Committee (STEC): Review clearances and provide recommendations
• Standing Committees: Oversee specific project clusters (13 Projects Committee)
• Steering Committees: Coordinate large multi-project initiatives
• Coordination with Central Agencies: Liaise with Ministry of Power, CEA, WAPCOS, and other central bodies

7. Monitoring and Performance Management

Ensure projects meet performance and compliance standards:

• Project Monitoring: Regular site inspections and performance reviews
• Compliance Monitoring: Track environmental, social, and contractual compliance
• Performance Reporting: Prepare periodic reports on project status and achievements
• Issue Resolution: Address disputes and challenges during project implementation
• Data Management: Maintain comprehensive project database and documentation

8. Technical Planning and Design Review

Provide technical oversight for project quality:

• Design Review: Assess project designs for technical adequacy
• DPR Evaluation: Review Detailed Project Reports submitted by developers
• Technical Standards: Ensure compliance with Indian Standards and international best practices
• Quality Assurance: Monitor construction quality through regular inspections
• Innovation Integration: Promote adoption of modern technologies in hydropower development

9. Stakeholder Coordination and Public Information

Facilitate transparent communication and engagement:

• Public Information: Disseminate information on hydropower projects and policies
• RTI Requests: Handle Right to Information applications
• Media Liaison: Engage with media on sector-related matters
• Community Meetings: Facilitate public hearings and community consultations
• Grievance Redressal: Provide mechanism for public grievances and concerns

10. Research and Development

Support innovation in hydropower sector:

• Technology Assessment: Evaluate new hydropower technologies and methodologies
• Training Programs: Conduct capacity building for department staff and stakeholders
• Best Practices: Adopt and promote international best practices in hydropower development
• Knowledge Sharing: Participate in national and regional hydropower forums

Project Portfolio Status

• Completed Projects: 8 (6,055.5 MW)
• Projects Under Construction: 8
• Projects Under Implementation: 96 (various clearance stages)
• Total Projects: 112 with ~47,993.5 MW total capacity

Contact Information

For inquiries related to DHPD functions:

Department of Hydropower Development Government of Arunachal Pradesh Civil Secretariat, Itanagar - 791111 Email: commrdhpd.arn@gmail.com Phone: 8731931119 (PIO)