Daily Current Affairs : 30-December-2024

The Upper Siang Multipurpose Project is a significant hydroelectric initiative aimed at improving flood control, maintaining a consistent river flow, and generating power. The project, valued at ₹1.13 lakh crore, is located in Arunachal Pradesh, near the Siang River, a key tributary of the Brahmaputra. The project is expected to benefit not only Arunachal Pradesh but also neighboring Assam, addressing environmental, energy, and water management issues.

Key Features of the Project

The Upper Siang Multipurpose Project is designed with multiple objectives in mind, aiming to address both ecological and energy needs in the region. Here are some key features of the project:

  • Electricity Generation: The project has an installed capacity of 11,000 MW, which will help boost the electricity supply to the region and beyond.
  • Flood Mitigation: One of the primary goals of the project is to reduce the risk of flooding caused by excess water releases from upstream sources, particularly from China.
  • Maintaining River Flow: The project aims to ensure that the Siang River maintains a consistent flow throughout the year, even during lean seasons when water availability is low.
Strategic Importance
  • Flood Control: Excessive water released from China’s dams in the upper reaches of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries has been a recurring problem. This project will help manage water flow and reduce the potential damage caused by floods.
  • Hydroelectric Power: With an installed capacity of 11,000 MW, this project can contribute significantly to meeting India’s growing energy demand.
  • Environmental Benefits: By maintaining the natural flow of the Siang River, the project will prevent erosion, preserve ecosystems, and help in sustainable water management.
Location and Stakeholders
  • Location: The project is situated in the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, along the Siang River, which is an important tributary of the Brahmaputra.
  • States Involved: Both Arunachal Pradesh and Assam will benefit from the infrastructure development and approach roads related to the project.
  • Developers: The project is being developed by NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) and NEEPCO (North Eastern Electric Power Corporation).
Important Points:
  • Project Overview:
    • The Upper Siang Multipurpose Project aims to generate electricity, mitigate floods, and maintain year-round river flow.
    • Estimated cost: ₹1.13 lakh crore.
  • Key Features:
    • Installed Capacity: 11,000 MW for electricity generation.
    • Reservoir Capacity: 9 billion cubic metres (BCM).
    • Objectives:
      • Flood mitigation from upstream water releases (especially from China).
      • Ensuring consistent river flow in lean seasons.
  • Location and Scope:
    • Located in Upper Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh, near the Siang River (a tributary of the Brahmaputra).
    • Involves both Arunachal Pradesh and Assam for infrastructure development and access roads.
  • Developers:
    • NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) and NEEPCO (North Eastern Electric Power Corporation) are jointly developing the project.
  • Strategic Importance:
    • Flood Control: Helps mitigate flood risks caused by excess water released upstream (China).
    • Power Generation: Provides a significant boost to India’s electricity supply with 11,000 MW capacity.
    • Environmental Protection: Maintains natural river flow and prevents ecosystem damage.
Why In News

Arunachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister stated that the ₹1.13 lakh crore Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is designed to generate electricity, ensure a consistent river flow throughout the year, and mitigate flood risks caused by excess water released from upstream dams in China, thereby protecting both lives and infrastructure in the region.

MCQs about Upper Siang Multipurpose Project
  1. What is the primary objective of the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project?
    A. To promote tourism in Arunachal Pradesh
    B. To generate electricity, manage river flow, and mitigate flood risks
    C. To build a road network in the northeastern states
    D. To improve agricultural practices in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh
    Correct Answer: B. To generate electricity, manage river flow, and mitigate flood risks
    Explanation: The Upper Siang Multipurpose Project is designed to generate electricity, maintain year-round river flow, and mitigate flood risks caused by excess water releases from upstream sources, particularly China.
  2. What is the installed electricity generation capacity of the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project?
    A. 1,100 MW
    B. 11,000 MW
    C. 100 MW
    D. 1,000 MW
    Correct Answer: B. 11,000 MW
    Explanation: The project has an installed capacity of **11,000 MW**, which is expected to provide a significant boost to electricity generation in the region.
  3. Which two states will benefit from the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project’s infrastructure development?
    A. Arunachal Pradesh and West Bengal
    B. Arunachal Pradesh and Assam
    C. Assam and Meghalaya
    D. Assam and Nagaland
    Correct Answer: B. Arunachal Pradesh and Assam
    Explanation: The project will benefit both **Arunachal Pradesh** and **Assam**, as it involves infrastructure development and approach roads in these two states.
  4. Which two organizations are jointly developing the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project?
    A. NTPC and NEEPCO
    B. NHPC and NEEPCO
    C. NHPC and NTPC
    D. NHPC and Ministry of Power
    Correct Answer: B. NHPC and NEEPCO
    Explanation: The project is being jointly developed by **NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation)** and **NEEPCO (North Eastern Electric Power Corporation)**.

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