The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) today approved the setting up of Nimoo Bazgo Hydroelectric Project (3 x 15 MW) in the State of Jammu & Kashmir by  National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC)  at an estimated cost of Rs.611.01 crore by reallocating grant earmarked for the 220 kV Srinagar-Leh transmission line to this project.  The funding pattern is as follows :

(i)         Equity from Government of India  Rs.183.30 crore

(ii)         Grant from Government of India   Rs.270.00 crore

(iii)        Commercial loan                                                Rs.157.71 crore

            This would enable the Government to reduce the power shortage in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh region is not connected with the Northern grid and the entire power generated from the project would be absorbed in the Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir.

BACKGROUND:

            The proposed Nimoo Bazgo Hydroelectric  Project would be located on river Indus in Leh District of Jammu & Kashmir.  The project site is located near village Alchi and is about 70 km from Leh by road.  The project involves construction of a 57 m high concrete gravity dam and surface powerhouse at dam toe.  A maximum gross head of 37.25 m will be tilized to generate 239.33 Million Units in a 90% dependable year with an installed capacity of 3 x 15 Mega Watt (MW).

            In pursuance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Government of India and Government of Jammu & Kashmir on July 20, 2000, Nimoo Bazgo H.E. Project along with six other  hydroelectric projects in J&K was entrusted to National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).

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