Modi inaugurates 60MW Tuirial Hydropower Project in Mizoram
Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 60MW Tuirial Hydropower Project near Kolasib in Mizoram during his maiden visit to the state since becoming PM in 2014. "It is the first large hydropower project in Mizoram. It will boost the socio-economic development of the State," he said. The project has turned Mizoram to the third power-surplus state in the Northeast after Tripura and Sikkim.
Modi says project is a "boon" for Mizoram
Construction of Tuirial project took over two decades
The Tuirial Hydropower Project was cleared by the PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government in 1998. However, an agitation caused construction to come to a halt in 2006, causing widespread delays. Sustained efforts by North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and the ministry of power allowed construction to resume in 2011. The project, which cost Rs. 1,302 crore, was commissioned before Modi inaugurated it.
How Mizoram would benefit from the project
Modi has said the Tuirial Hydropower Project would provide electricity while the water reservoir would facilitate navigation and boost connectivity between remote villages. This would help develop fisheries, boost eco-tourism and provide drinking water.
Modi govt. to fund start-ups in Northeast states
In his speech, Modi said his government has prioritized the development of the Northeast states. The Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) has set up a Rs. 100 crore Northeast Venture Capital Fund. Modi will be distributing cheques to young entrepreneurs in the region. Modi has urged youth in Mizoram to take advantage of the government's initiatives to venture into building start-ups.
Modi: Will boost rail connectivity in Northeast
Modi said, "We are committed to bring all the State Capitals of North East Region on the Rail map." He said the government will build 15 new railway lines having a length of 1,385-km at a cost of over Rs. 47,000 crore. He said Mizoram would benefit from the 'Act East Policy' as it's a crucial "transit point for trade with Myanmar and Bangladesh."
