NHPC Limited has commenced commercial operations for three out of four units of its 800 MW Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project in Himachal Pradesh, with the final unit set to be commissioned soon. NHPC CMD RK Chaudhary expressed pride in achieving this milestone, highlighting the dedication and teamwork behind the project’s success.
Situated in Kullu district, the Parbati-II project is a run-of-the-river scheme on the Parbati River. It includes an 83.7-meter-high concrete gravity dam at Pulga in Manikaran valley and a 31.56 km Head Race Tunnel (HRT) leading to a powerhouse in Siund, Sainj valley. This HRT is India’s longest hydropower tunnel. The project operates with a gross head of 862.50 meters and consists of four 200 MW Pelton turbines. It also boasts the world’s longest inclined pressure shaft tunnels excavated using TBM.
Himachal Pradesh will receive 12% free power, plus 1% for local development. Despite construction challenges since 2002, NHPC has generated 1130 MU of infirm power since 2018, earning ₹182 crore. The company has significantly contributed to infrastructure, local development, and employment, reinforcing its leadership in hydropower.
