The Arunachal Kalai II Project has received environmental clearance from the central government, marking a major strategic move near the China border. The 1,200 MW hydropower project will come up on the Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh’s remote Anjaw district.
The project will cost around ₹14,176 crore and will strengthen power supply across the Northeast. THDC India Limited will develop the project using a run-of-the-river design. This method avoids large reservoirs and uses the river’s natural flow, making it environmentally safer.
The Lohit River originates in eastern Tibet and enters India near Kibithu. A hydropower project at this location will give India better control over river flow. Officials see it as important for water management, flood control, and border security.
Construction will take about 78 months. During this period, authorities will build roads, bridges, housing units, and other infrastructure. The project will also create local jobs and improve connectivity in border areas. Two health centres with adequate medical staff will be set up for nearby communities.
The environment ministry confirmed that no national park or wildlife reserve lies within a 10-kilometre radius. A ₹1 crore wildlife protection plan has also been approved.
The project strengthens energy security, boosts regional development, and enhances India’s strategic presence along the eastern border.
