Rishikesh, 19-Jan-2024: In a significant stride towards advancing the nation’s hydroelectric capabilities, Sh. R. K. Vishnoi, Chairman and Managing Director of THDC India Limited, announced a pivotal achievement in the construction of the 444 MW Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project. On January 18, 2024, the commencement of concrete work in Block No. 1 of the main dam marked a significant stride in the project’s development.
Furthermore, Sh. Vishnoi also acknowledged the remarkable achievement of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) in setting a new record in the Himalayan Hydro Electric Sector. On January 17, 2024, this TBM, equipped with the latest Double Shield technology, constructed a 24-meter section of a 9.86-meter diameter Head Race Tunnel (HRT), setting a record for the largest diameter TBM tunnel bored in a single day in the Himalayan geology of India – a significant accomplishment that not only elevates the status of THDC but also brings pride to the nation. This accomplishment included the installation of lining, filling of Pea Gravel and Grouting, under the supervision of the expert teams from THDCIL and HCC. More than 550 m out of total 11.7 kms HRT has been constructed through TBM in last 2 months.
Sh. Vishnoi, addressing the accomplishment via video conferencing, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to all officers and employees of VPHEP for their dedicated efforts. He underscored the project team’s resilience in overcoming challenges and emphasized the significance of initiating concrete work on the main dam.
Providing insights into the project, Vishnoi outlined that the 444 MW Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project, situated in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, is a run-of-the-river project. The project involves the construction of a 65-meter-high concrete #dam on the Alaknanda River, utilizing a gross head of 237 meters. It is anticipated to generate 1657 Million units of electricity. Noteworthy progress has been achieved in the civil work on major project structures, including the Power House, Transformer Hall, Dam, HRT, and TRT area.
The online meeting, attended by Sh. J. Behera (Director, Finance), Sh. Shallinder Singh Director (Personnel), Sh. Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), along with other senior officials of VPHEP Project reflecting a collective commitment to project success.
Sh. J. Behera, Director (Finance), extended his sincere appreciation and hearty congratulations to the VPHEP team for their exemplary hard work.
Sh. Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel), commended the efforts of the VPHEP team and motivated them to adhere to the stipulated time-frame.
Sh. Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), extended congratulations to the VPHEP team and expressed optimism about completing the project ahead of schedule, given the current pace.
Ajay Verma, Head of Project (VPHEP), along with other Senior officials of THDCIL were also present during the event.