Mechuka, just 29 kms away from China border, without power for 5th day today

Mechuka town in Arunachal Pradesh has been reeling under darkness for the fifth day today after two hydel power plants, which were the lifeline of Mechuka, were severely damaged by a cloudburst that hit Lhallung village near Mechuka on Saturday. Strategically located Mechuka is just 29 kms away from China border.

Due to the flash floods triggered by the cloudburst, the river changed its course and came directly inside the power house of both Sirikorong MHS PH-I, thereby submerging all the critical components of both hydel stations severely affecting both the hydel plants.

The two hydel plants were the only source of power supply to Mechuka Town and its adjoining villages with a population of about 4000.

The cloudburst caused devastating floods and damaged not just the two hydel power stations but washed away standing crops, houses, and livestock.

Taking serious cognizance of the matter, Kesang Goiba, ADC, Mechuka formed a committee and ordered a joint inspection of both hydel power projects to be done by Circle Officer Dr. Honjohn Perme, accompanied by other officials and engineers responsible for the plants.

Durick Kamduk, Senior Engineer, Siang and Siyom Basin, Jennging, also visited the site and took stock of the situation on September 17 and directed the Executive Engineer to start the restoration works without waiting for further instructions.

The board of inspection team, after thoroughly inspecting both damaged hydel plants, has unanimously agreed to the proposal of complete replacement of machines and other electromechanical items as the damage seems irreparable in nature and repair of damaged items would not guarantee smooth functioning of the plants.

Arunachal: Cloudburst in Mechuka damage hydel stations, crops, houses and livestock