Nathpa Jhakri project achieves record monthly power generation

Ashish Negi

Rampur, August 18

Despite the increasing threat of natural disasters in the upper regions of Himachal Pradesh, the nation’s largest underground hydropower project, Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project, has witnessed its best power generation performance in the past 20 years.

The 1,500-MW project, operated by SJVN, a joint venture between the Centre and Himachal Pradesh government, has set new records for electricity production this year.

Since beginning operations in May 2004, the plant broke its previous record for the highest monthly electricity generation in July, surpassing the previous high of 1,216.565 million units with a new record of 1,222.17 million units.

On August 13, the project also achieved a new record for daily electricity generation, producing 39.572 million units in a day.

This level of production has never been seen before in the last 20 years, whether on a daily or monthly basis, bringing joy to the management of the Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project.

The management attributes this achievement to favorable conditions and effective teamwork.

SJVN’s Executive Director and head of the Nathpa Jhakri project, Manoj Kumar, explained that the melting snow from the mountains during the monsoon season increases water level, contributing to higher power generation. However, challenges arise when cloudbursts or floods occur, as they bring excessive silt to the river, which can damage the turbines. Fortunately, this year, the water level in the Sutlej river was ideal, and silt levels were lower than expected.

Manoj Kumar credited the record-breaking performance to the dedicated efforts of every employee and official working on the project, noting that the exceptional coordination and teamwork has led to this successful outcome.