New Delhi: Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), Government of India, undertook a comprehensive review of the progress of SJVN’s 900 MW Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project (Arun-3 HEP) in Nepal today. The strategically significant cross-border hydropower project is being developed by SJVN through its wholly owned subsidiary, SJVN Arun-3 Power Development Company (SAPDC).
The high-level delegation accompanying the Secretary (Power) comprised Naveen Srivastava, Ambassador of India to Nepal, Ghanashyam Prasad, Chairperson, Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Diwakar Nath Misra, Additional Secretary (Hydro), Ministry of Power, Pankaj Kumar, Joint Secretary (Transmission), Ministry of Power, Rajesh Kumar Chandel, Director (Projects), SJVN, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Power, Government of India, the Embassy of India in Nepal, Central Electricity Authority, SJVN and SAPDC.
The visit commenced with an inspection of the Underground Powerhouse Site at Pukhuwa, the delegation reviewed the progress of civil and electro-mechanical works along with other key project components. The team was apprised of the ongoing construction activities, implementation strategy and the progress achieved across various project milestones. Subsequently, the delegation visited the Dam Site at Phaksinda and inspected the progress of major civil works, including the dam structure, intake arrangements and other critical infrastructure associated with the project.
During the review, Pankaj Agarwal appreciated the efforts of SJVN and SAPDC in executing one of the region’s most significant Hydropower Project under the challenging Himalayan terrain. He acknowledged the progress achieved and encouraged the project team to maintain the present pace of execution while ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety and environmental sustainability.
Rajesh Kumar Chandel, Director (Projects), SJVN, urged the project team to continue its focused efforts towards achieving the targeted commissioning schedule while maintaining excellence in project execution.
Pankaj Chaudhary, Chief Executive Officer, SAPDC, briefed the delegation on the status of various construction packages, rehabilitation and resettlement initiatives, community development programmes and environmental management measures being implemented as part of the project.
The 900 MW Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project is a flagship international venture of SJVN and a landmark initiative in India–Nepal energy cooperation. Once commissioned, the project will contribute significantly to clean energy generation, strengthen regional energy security and further deepen the enduring partnership between India and Nepal.
