NHPC’s Subanshri Project Still Awaited Commissioning

The Subanshri project, with a capacity of 2000MW, undertaken by NHPC has encountered numerous obstacles leading to significant delays. Challenges such as adverse geological conditions, natural disasters, and work stoppages mandated by NGT had hindered the progress of the project. Despite these setbacks, the current NHPC team has adeptly navigated through these hurdles, and the mega project is now on the brink of commissioning.

Initially, the delays had sparked concerns among NHPC management and top officials at the Ministry of Power. Nonetheless, NHPC’s resilience shone through as they devised in-house engineering solutions and swiftly implemented them at the project site. At present, major components like the dam, radial gates, HRT, TRC, and pressure shafts have been successfully completed. Three units, each with a capacity of 250 MW, have been boxed up , with work on the remaining five units progressing rapidly. Only a few minor activities remain outstanding.

Critical elements such as power intake gates, radial gates, MIVs, three HRTs, and associated pressure shafts have undergone successful testing without any signs of leakages, seepage, or damage, underscoring the quality of work executed by NHPC. The timeline for commissioning the project is well-defined, with three units expected to be commissioned by September 2025, and the remaining five units slated for commissioning by May 2026.

The commendable progress made on the Subanshri project can be attributed to the prompt decision-making, relentless efforts of NHPC’s Management & project team, and the unwavering support and guidance from the Ministry of Power. However, the final hurdle in the journey towards commissioning rests with obtaining approval from NDSA to commence operations.

It has been reported that a team from NDSA is scheduled to inspect the project in the fourth week of August 2025, with clearance anticipated thereafter. The Ministry of Power is keen on commissioning the project by September this year, although the actual completion timeline remains contingent on the approval process.

The Subanshri project is going to be single largest Hydroelectric project of India and stands as a testament to the perseverance and expertise of NHPC in overcoming challenges and steering the project towards successful completion. As the project awaits the final green signal for operations, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the imminent commissioning that promises to bolster the region’s power infrastructure.