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Key Points

The governments of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are embarking on a significant green energy initiative to modernize two historic hydroelectric power stations. The Rs 1,000 crore project will upgrade Gandhi Sagar and Rana Pratap Sagar hydel stations, enhancing their efficiency and generation capacity. Both stations, located on the Chambal River, have served the region for decades and will now receive comprehensive technical renovations. This joint effort underscores India's commitment to sustainable power infrastructure and renewable energy development.

Key Points: MP Rajasthan Green Hydel Revamp Boosts Renewable Energy

  • Two iconic hydel stations Gandhi Sagar and Rana Pratap Sagar to be modernized
  • Rs 1,000 crore investment will enhance renewable energy capacity
  • 30% state funding and 70% institutional loans planned for renovation
  • Project aims to increase clean electricity generation to 290 MW
2 min read

MP, Rajasthan to modernise historic hydel stations with Rs 1,000 crore green energy push

Two historic hydroelectric stations on Chambal River to get Rs 1,000 crore modernization, enhancing renewable energy output across MP and Rajasthan

"The modernisation is expected to improve efficiency and extend the operational life of the plants - Kailash Vijayavargiya, Minister"

Bhopal, July 22

In a significant move to revitalise ageing infrastructure and boost renewable energy output, the Governments of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have decided on a joint initiative to modernise two of India's oldest hydroelectric power stations -- Gandhi Sagar in Neemuch and Rana Pratap Sagar in Rawatbhata.

The combined investment for the renovation stands at over Rs 1,000 crore, with Rs 464 crore allocated for Gandhi Sagar and Rs 575 crore for Rana Pratap Sagar.

The Gandhi Sagar Hydel Power Station, commissioned between 1960 and 1966 on the Chambal River, has long served as a cornerstone of Madhya Pradesh's hydropower generation. With five units of 23 MW each, the station has an installed capacity of 115 MW.

Technical assessments conducted by Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Limited (MPPGCL) and central agencies like WAPCOS have confirmed that the plant has outlived its design life and requires comprehensive renovation and modernisation, said Kailash Vijayavargiya, state urban development minister and government spokesperson.

The plan includes reverse engineering, equipment replacement, and uprating of generation capacity, with 30 per cent of the funding to be provided by the state government and the remaining 70 per cent sourced through institutional loans, the minister said, adding that the cabinet has decided to go ahead with the plan.

Meanwhile, the Rana Pratap Sagar Hydel Power Station in Rajasthan, commissioned in 1968 under the joint Chambal Valley Project, has an installed capacity of 172 MW across four units.

The station faced severe setbacks in 2019 when all units were submerged due to flooding, prompting a multi-year restoration effort.

Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RRVUNL) has now committed to a full-scale renewal of the facility, with similar funding proportions -- 30 per cent equity from the state and 70 per cent through loans.

The project aims to restore and enhance the station's output to 175 MW.

Both states share operational responsibilities and costs for these interstate projects, reflecting a long-standing energy partnership.

The modernisation is expected to improve efficiency, extend the operational life of the plants, and contribute significantly to the region's green energy portfolio, said the minister. Once completed, the two stations will collectively generate nearly 290 MW of clean electricity, reinforcing India's commitment to sustainable power and infrastructure resilience.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While I appreciate the green energy push, I'm concerned about the 70% loan component. We've seen how debt burdens state finances. Why not explore PPP models instead? The Chambal region deserves sustainable development without future financial stress.
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Aman W
Great initiative! My grandfather worked at Gandhi Sagar plant in 1970s. These stations are part of our industrial heritage. Modernizing them will create jobs and preserve history while boosting clean energy. Win-win for MP and Rajasthan! 🇮🇳
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Sarah B
As someone working in renewable energy sector, this is a smart move. Hydropower is often overlooked in India's green transition. These stations can serve as models for other aging plants across the country. The capacity uprating is particularly impressive!
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Vikram M
Hope they don't just replace machines but also upgrade safety systems. The 2019 flooding incident at Rana Pratap Sagar was a wake-up call. Climate change means more extreme weather - our infrastructure must be ready.
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Nisha Z
Good step, but what about environmental impact? Chambal river ecosystem is fragile. Modernization should include strict measures to protect biodiversity. We can't sacrifice nature for development.

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