The HIndia and Bhutan stepped up their engagement in the power sector by signing new pacts, including a memorandum of understanding for four new hydel projects and for initiating consultancy services aimed at the preparation of a transmission grid master plan in the Himalayan nation.

The MoUs on initiating the detailed project report work cover the Amochu Reservoir 620 of MW, Kuri-Gongri 1800 of MW, Kholongchu 486 of MW and Chamkharchu-I of 670 MW projects in Bhutan. These pacts will be inked under the 60 year umbrella agreement signed in 2006.

Currently, three projects Chukha of 336 MW, Karichu of 60 MW and Tala of 1020 MW which were constructed through Indian assistance are already under operation in Bhutan, while the 1200 MW Punatsangchu project is under construction.

The Government of Bhutan has set the target of development of over 10,000 MW of hydel power by 2020 and the Indian Government has committed to providing assistance to realize this target. At least, 10 mega hydel projects will be constructed by 2020, amounting to a total installed capacity of 11626 MW.

(Sourced from Hindu)