132 MW plant proposed in Saitual near Manipur border; CM Lalduhoma reviews DPR, eyes PPP model, 5-year build target_
Edited by Lulun Haokip, Kukiland Express Desk
Soongpi, May 28, 2026
Mizoram has moved to set up a 132 MW hydroelectric project on the Tuivai River in Saitual district, aiming to ease its heavy dependence on purchased power as electricity demand climbs. The project site lies near the Manipur border.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday reviewed the plan at his office with Power Minister F. Rodingliana and senior officials from the Power and Electricity Department. Officials confirmed the Detailed Project Report is complete and the state is preparing to float tenders. The government is looking at a Public-Private Partnership model for execution.
Demand vs Generation Gap
Mizoram’s peak power demand stands at 182 MW and is projected to reach 213 MW by 2030, based on the 20th Electric Power Survey. While the state has an installed capacity of 50.20 MW, actual generation covers only about 10% of its needs.
The shortfall forces Mizoram to buy power from outside. Annual power purchase costs run to Rs 649.54 crore, excluding transmission charges. Officials said expanding in-state generation is now a priority to reduce the outflow.
Project History and Revision
The Central Water Commission first surveyed the Tuivai project in 1992 and pegged its potential at 210 MW. The design was later scaled down after surveys showed part of the original dam area fell inside Manipur. The revised plan is for 132 MW.
As per the new DPR, the project will cost Rs 2,289.50 crore and is slated for completion in five years once work starts. The meeting also covered annual funding needs in consultation with the Finance Department.
Other Power Sector Updates
The review also tracked progress on the ongoing Tuirini Hydroelectric Project and the implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme. Officials discussed key points to raise with the Union Power Minister during his upcoming visit to Mizoram.
The Tuivai project, if executed on schedule, would be the largest hydro asset in the state and is expected to significantly cut Mizoram’s power import bill.
