Assam clears projects for thermal, hydro and green sectors

The Government of Assam is pushing ahead with a large-scale infrastructure push across thermal, hydro, and green sectors. The Cabinet has cleared the 3,400 MW Dhubri Thermal Power Project and the 900 MW West Karbi Anglong Pumped Storage Project. A new green investment fund has also been approved.

The Dhubri project is planned in Chirakuta Charuwa Bakra, Bilasipara, co-district in Dhubri district. It is expected to attract Rs 400 billion in investment. The state is expected to invite bids for the project soon.

The Cabinet has also approved land allotment for the West Karbi Anglong Pumped Storage Project to Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Limited. This 900 MW project in West Karbi Anglong district is expected to involve an investment of Rs 54 billion.

In a separate move, the state has cleared the creation of the Assam Industrial and Green Growth Fund. This SEBI-registered Alternate Investment Fund will have a total size of Rs 3,000 crore, with Rs 500 crore to be infused by the state in phases as anchor investment. The fund aims to drive capital into renewable energy, green infrastructure, agro-tech, tourism, MSMEs, and startups.

Further, the Cabinet notified Urpad Beel (1,256 hectares) and Hasila Beel (245 hectares) in Goalpara as Proposed Reserve Forests under the Assam Forest Regulation, 1891. The aim is to conserve these ecologically sensitive wetlands.