Oju Hydroelectric Project
An expert panel from the Union Environment Ministry has recommended environmental clearance for the 2,220 MW Oju hydroelectric project.
Location and Capacity
- Proposed on the Subansiri river in Taksing near the China border.
- Largest among the planned hydroelectric projects in the Subansiri basin.
- Other projects include Niare, Naba, Nalo, Dengser, Upper Subansiri, and Lower Subansiri.
Project Details
- Developed by Oju Subansiri Hydro Power Corporation Pvt Ltd.
- Main power plant capacity: 2,100 MW.
- Dam-toe plant capacity: 120 MW.
- Requires diversion of 750 hectares of forest land.
- Approximately 43 hectares will be submerged.
- Displacement of nine families.
Environmental Concerns and Assessments
Assam-based environmental activist Bimal Gogoi highlighted issues with outdated studies:
- Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) and Carrying Capacity Study (CCS) last completed in 2014.
- The expert appraisal committee (EAC) accepted submissions after reviewing hydrology and ecological flow data.
Public Hearing and Safety Measures
- A mandatory public hearing took place last August at Redi village.
- Conducted a detailed glacial lake flood assessment and dam-break analysis.
- Design flood estimation should factor in glacial lake flood scenarios as emphasized by the panel.