Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project Inaugurated in Assam

The Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project was inaugurated on March 13, 2026, in Dima Hasao district of Assam. The project was launched virtually by the Prime Minister. It is a 120 MW hydropower project built on the Kopili River.

The project is important because it increases electricity generation in Northeast India. It also supports clean energy and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. The total cost of the project is more than ₹2,300 crore.

Key features:

• Developed by Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL)
• Funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB)
• Located in West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao districts
• Run-of-the-river project (uses natural water flow without large dam)

Background:

India is focusing on renewable energy to meet climate goals. Northeast India has high hydropower potential due to many rivers. The Kopili River originates in Meghalaya and joins the Brahmaputra.

The foundation stone was laid on October 7, 2021. The project will improve power supply, create jobs, and support regional development.

Future impact:

• Better electricity supply in remote areas
• Growth in industries and infrastructure
• Support to India’s renewable energy targets

🔑 Key Points

• 120 MW hydropower project in Assam
• Located on Kopili River basin
• Inaugurated in March 2026
• Developed by APGCL
• Funded by Asian Development Bank
• Cost over ₹2,300 crore
• Run-of-the-river technology
• Boosts Northeast energy security
• Supports clean energy goals

🧠 Concept Link (Very Important)

• Hydropower uses flowing water to generate electricity
• Run-of-river projects do not store large water
• Renewable energy reduces carbon emissions
• Brahmaputra river system is major in Northeast India
• Tributary means river joining a larger river
• Energy security ensures stable power supply

❓ Practice Questions (MCQ)

1.Lower Kopili Project is built on which river?
A) Ganga
B) Brahmaputra
C) Kopili
D) Teesta

Answer: C

2.What is the capacity of Lower Kopili Project?
A) 100 MW
B) 120 MW
C) 150 MW
D) 200 MW

Answer: B

3.Which organization developed the project?
A) NHPC
B) NTPC
C) APGCL
D) BHEL

Answer: C

4.The project is funded by which institution?
A) World Bank
B) IMF
C) ADB
D) AIIB

Answer: C

5.Kopili River is a tributary of which river?
A) Yamuna
B) Godavari
C) Brahmaputra
D) Narmada

Answer: C

📜 Previous Year Question (Similar Type)

1. Run-of-the-river projects are related to which sector?
Answer: Hydropower

2. Brahmaputra river originates from which region?
Answer: Tibet (Angsi Glacier region)

⚠️ Examiner Trap

Students often confuse run-of-the-river projects with large dam storage projects. They are different.

🧭 Exam Tip

Focus on river name, capacity, location, and funding agency for prelims questions.

🏷️ Topics Covered

• Hydropower
• Kopili River
• Brahmaputra Basin
• Renewable Energy
• APGCL
• ADB
• Northeast India
• Infrastructure Projects