Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (SJVNL) is mulling to almost double the generation capacity of its 402 MW Arun-III hydro electric project coming up on Arun river valley in Nepal to 800 MW. The move is a part of SJVNL's plan to expand its generation capacity ahead of the proposed 10 per cent stake sale by the Union Government in the company.

Earlier the cost of setting up the project had been estimated to be over Rs 4,000 crore. This cost may go up by 30-40 per cent because of the upgradation.

The power generated from the project is to be evacuated by a 430 km, 220-kV double-circuit power transmission line to Kathmandu via Duhabi and Dhalkebar. The project work also includes construction of a 68 mtrs high dam and a 117 km highway.

According to sources, SJVNL in the final stages of preparing the DPR and construction of the project is likely to begin in two years.

Also See:

Government may offload 10 per cent stake in SJVNL (04-Aug-09)