Overall, the nature of the terrain through which the transmission lines had to pass made the route surveys extremely tedious, but the experience of the Sterlite Power surveyors helped to minimize the challenges. Also, all overhead transmission line construction work was planned to ensure on-site works were minimally affected during the monsoon months.
The project also faced severe rights-of way (RO) challenges, as significant sections of the overhead transmission lines passed through areas with high tribal populations and autonomous councils. For example, 50% of the 400-kV Silchar-Misa overhead transmission line in Assam came under the purview of the autonomous councils in the region.
Then, in 2020, the project was severely disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a strict nationwide lockdown. Significant work restrictions were in place. This coincided with the need to move thousands of tons of overhead line materials to the challenging locations. At the time, it was estimated it would take some 1500 workers to move the materials manually in the hilly terrain — a task that would have taken a full year and increased the risk of COVID-19 infection.
To speed up construction, Sterlite Power implemented an extensive aerial operation by deploying lightweight helicopters to transport 6700 metric tons (7385 tons) of material across 50 locations in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. This modification made the transportation of construction material safer, quicker and more efficient.
Community-Based Approach
Sterlite Power places a strong emphasis on taking a community-based approach in all its projects. Creating positive social impact is one of its core values. In line with this philosophy, the company engaged with various communities, including autonomous tribes such as Biates, Hmar, Dimasa, Zeme and Karbi across 200 villages, to ensure an inclusive approach toward development.
Employment was provided to more than 10,000 skilled and unskilled people during the construction phase of the project. Concerted efforts were made to provide essential health care to vulnerable communities around the project sites during the pandemic and national lockdown. Apart from providing relief items, the company carried out multiple job training and skills programs with underprivileged communities.
Project Achievements
The project kicked off in March 2017 and estimated completion dates for the different system elements ranged from 36 months to 44 months. Despite all the challenges during the three-year project period, all elements were commissioned from February 2021 to April 2021.
In addition to providing reliable supply of power to the region, this project was a true harbinger of sustainable development. Apart from enhancing the reliability and availability of the power supply, the project has the potential to boost the annual per-capita electricity consumption in the Northeastern region from 402 kWh today to the national average of 1208 kWh.
