Odisha to Add 600 MW Hydropower with Upper Indravati Project, CEA Grant Final Approval

Odisha to Add 600 MW Hydropower with Upper Indravati Project, CEA Grant Final Approval

Odisha is set to boost its hydropower generation by 600 megawatts (MW) following the final approval of the Upper Indravati Hydro Power (UIHP) project by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). The project will be developed at an estimated cost of ₹3,160 crore.

The UIHP project is one of three major pumped storage initiatives planned by the Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC), which together aim to add a total capacity of 1,700 MW. The other two projects—500 MW Balimela Pumped Storage Project (PSP) and the 600 MW Upper Kolab PSP at Bariniput—are currently in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparation stage.

Originally approved by the State Water Resources Department in 2015, the UIHP project will be located about 500 meters from the existing Upper Indravati Power House at Mukhiguda in Kalahandi district. The project will use the existing Indravati reservoir as the upper reservoir, while a new lower reservoir will be constructed near Ranibahal village.

Except for the intake structure and lower reservoir, all key components of the project—including the powerhouse and penstocks—will be located underground, minimizing environmental impact and optimizing land use.

Once the three projects are completed, OHPC’s installed capacity will rise from the current 2,100 MW to 3,800 MW, strengthening Odisha’s position as a key hydropower producer in eastern India.

According to the Detailed Project Report (DPR), the Upper Indravati Hydro Power project will require the acquisition of approximately 152 hectares of land. This includes 107.5 hectares of forest land, 24 hectares of government land, and 20.5 hectares of private land. Land demarcation and tree enumeration have already been completed, and a proposal for forest land diversion has been submitted to the authorities. The Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC) will acquire private land in the Thuamul Rampur and Jaypatna tehsils through direct purchase.

Sources indicated that the project is being designed with a strong emphasis on environmental and social sustainability. A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been conducted to minimize ecological disruption and safeguard the interests of local communities. A public hearing is expected to be held soon as part of the approval process.

The one-of-its-kind project will have four stages, each having a capacity of generating 150 MW power. It has been designed in a unique way. An underground power house will be built with four reversible turbines and a transformer hall equipped with a step-up transformer and GI Switchyard.

“This will act as a giant power storage station and release power when required. The power will be evacuated through a 400 KV double circuit transmission line to Theruvali grid. WAPCOS has been engaged as project management consultant for the project and tender for the engagement of contractor will be floated soon,” the source added.