Chapter-IV
Thdro !Efecfric Uevelofimerti in
Sanui iSasin
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
In the foregoing chapter an account of hydropower with scope of hydro
electric potential and progress of power sector in the state of Himachal
Pradesh has been discussed. The first part of the present chapter is related
with an overview of Satluj River Basin and the second part is related with the
development of hydroelectric projects on Satluj River Basin.
INTRODUCTION
Satluj derived from Sanskrit word Shatardu/Satadru/Sutudri in Rigveda
means "running in a hundred streams". The Satluj is believed to be an
antecedent river because of its existence prior to the phase of Upper
Pleistocene uplift of the Himalaya, which is evident from the formation of
canyons and gorges along its course, is one of the largest rivers in Himachal
Pradesh. The Satluj River rises in the Kailash Mansarovar region in Tibet with
its origin in the Rakshas Tal as Longchhen Khabab (Xianquan). The
geological evidence indicates that prior to 1700 B.C. Satluj was an important
tributary of Saraswati River rather than Sindhu River. It is suggested that the
tectonic activity brought about elevational changes which re-directed the flow
of Satluj from the southeast to the southwest. The mighty Saraswati which is
mostly referred to as a mythical river, began to dry up during 3900 year BP
(Before Present), causing desertification of Cholistan and the eastern part of
the Sindh state. The desertification resulted in the abandonment of numerous
ancient human settlements along the banks of Saraswati. The Satluj river
enters India near Shipkila (2880 m) in Himachal Pradesh and leaves the State
at Bhakra (Punjab). The river up to this point covers a distance of about 640
km from its origin and within Himachal Pradesh it travels a distance of 320
km. In Punjab it is joined by Beas and in Pakistan Chenab meets it at Uch
(Bhawalpur). The first major tributary of Satluj with in Indian Territory is Spiti
river which joins it at Khab. Ropa, Taiti, Kashang, Mulgaon, Yula, Wanger,
Throng and Rupi are its other right bank tributaries. The major left bank
tributaries of Satluj are Gayathing, Baspa, Dubling and Soldang. The major
settlements along the Satluj river with in Himachal Pradesh are Namgia,
Bhabanagar, Rampur, Tattapani, Suni and Bilaspur. The river Satluj passes
through Tibetian plateau into the Himalayan ranges and the Siwalik ranges
and finally flows along the plains of Punjab. It crosses Dhauladhar ranges at
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Rampur and Naina Devi range at Bhakra gorge. The river Satluj merges with
Sindhu at Mithankot in Pakistan after covering a distance of about 1500 km
from its origin.
4.1 CATCHMENT CHARACTERISTICS
The geographical limits of the Satluj basin upto Bharka Dam lie
between latitude 30°N to 33°N and 76°E to 83°E. It covers its area in Nari
Khorsam province of Tibet and in Himachal Pradesh State of India. The
catchment area at Bhakra Dam is about 56875 sq. km out of which about
36000 sq. km is in Tibet and 20875 sq. km in India (PFR Khab I, 2004). The
basin represents some remarkable physical features. Below it stretches the
loftiest mountain ranges of the world radiating from the Pamir Knot and later in
a easterly direction constitute a massive mountain wall extending over 2500
km with a varying width of 250 to 300 km. The Satluj is bound in the east by
the water divide of the Giri (a tributary of Yamuna) and on the west by that of
the Beas. It is interesting to note that at corresponding points in the
mountains, the beds of Giri and the Beas are relatively higher by 182 or 210
m than that of the Satluj. This clearly shows that the river Satluj runs along a
deeper trough than the other two rivers on its either side. Therefore, the
erosion and valley widening in Satluj valley is much higher compared to its
neighboring streams. In terms of incision, Satluj holds the third important
place among rivers in India, next to the Indus and the Brahmaputra. In the
headwater region of Satluj in Tibet, two lakes - the Manswarowar (4630 m) in
the east and the Rakshas Tal Lake (4515 m) in the west are interconnected
by a seasonal stream, which goes underground in the dry months. The
Mansarowar is a fresh water lake while the Rakshas Tal Lake has salt water.
A stream emerging from the Rakshas Lake flows for some distance and
disappears. A short distance away from this point, the Satluj starts its westerly
flow in the glacial spring of Dulchu Khambab, 35 km west of Parkha, which is
an important trading centre between Kailas and Mansarowar. Thus the Satluj
flows from the Rakshas Lake and the water of this lake comes from
Mansarowar as considered by Sven Heden (Srikantia and Bhargava, 1998).
Tage Tsangpo is mostly glacier fed. The sacred spring Langchen
Kamba lies in the head water region of Tage Tsangpo. This spring is the
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
source of the Ganglung Chu which emanates from the Ganlung glacier.
Because Ganglung Chu contributes maximum water to Tage Tsangpo, it
serves as the principal source of the great river Satluj. Satluj river flows as
Longcchen Khabab in Tibet. The important right bank streams of Satluj in the
Tibet region are Iwang Chu, Chowak, Sumna and Trapa. The major left bank
tributaries are Largchin and Manglan transu. The Satluj river flows for 1440
km and meets Indus near at Mithankot in Pakistan. At Uch it receives water
from Chenab river on its right bank. In Tibet, Satluj flows 640 km and enters
India at Shipkila. The fall of Satluj from its source in Tibet to the plains of
Punjab is very uniform and averages about 6 m per km. The river bed
elevation of Satluj is 4572 m at the Rakshas Lake, 3048 m near Shipkila, 914
m at Rampur, 500 m at Bilaspur and less than 300 m where it enters the
plains of Punjab. In Himachal Pradesh it has a total length of about 320 km
(fig. 4.1).
In its north-westeriy flow in Tibetan Plateau, the Satluj has carved a
900 m deep canyon near Nari Khorsam (4270 to 4570 m) through
unconsolidated Quaternary deposits. The river passes through the Zanskar
Range and it enters Himachal Pradesh near Shipkila, which is at 7.2 km from
the highest peak Leo Pargial (6791 m). The bed of the Satluj at this site being
3048 m, the gorge at this site is 3743 m deep. About 16 km below Shipkila the
right bank of the Satluj is a vertical wall of rock varying in height from 1829 to
2134 m. The Satluj cuts across the Great Himalaya Range near Kalpa, where
the range bifurcates. At Rampur it passes through a narrow rocky gorge in the
Dhauladhar Range. Further downstream it flows through the Shall Range and
descends down to Bilaspur. At Jamthal a fluvial terrace is preserved above
400 m from the Satluj river bed level which indicates that the river has incised
about 400 m in this stretch. In the downstream stretch in Siwalik Range, the
river Satluj has changed its course several times in the past (Negi, 1989).
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
TmVE _l
77-30'(TE I
78-0-trE
I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN DRAINAGE
78"30(rE I
N
S
r
0 10 20 40 60 80 =3HiHBKms
Fig. 4.1
104
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Large number of glaciers drains their waters into the river Satluj at various
points of its course and also into its tributary streams. The important glaciers
in Tibet are Ganglung Gaungni east of Mansarovar, the glaciers along the
southern slope of the Kailas Mountain draining into the Rakshas Tal, and the
northern glaciers of peak Kamet (7756 m). Further downstream, entering the
Himachal Himalaya, the glaciers draining from peak of Leo Pargial flow into
the Satluj. There are also glaciers draining into the major tributaries of Satluj,
namely the Spiti and Baspa. The upper tracts of the Satluj valley are under a
permanent snow cover. In the Satluj catchment, about 50,140 sq. km area is
located above the permanent snow line at an altitude of 4,500 m.
Topographically the catchment has been divided into categories as
below:
i) Tibetan Plateau:
River Satluj rises in Tibetian Plateau in the region of the Mansarover
Lake situated at an elevation of about 4570 m above mean sea level. There is
absolutely no vegetation in this region. When the snow melts deep channels
are formed on the surface. The river passes through the Tibetan province of
Nari khorsam, the best know Zaskar and Ladhak range. The Plateau has
been formed by successive deposits of boulders, gravels, clay, and mud in
the trough between two ranges. River Satluj has been able to cut a channel
about 915 m deep through the plateau with the water received from glaciers.
River Satluj in Narikorsam is joined by several tributaries.
ii) Spiti Valley:
Spiti river is the biggest tributary of the river Satluj and joins river Satluj
at Namgia (Khab) about 14kms 4/5 Pooh. The characteristics of this
catchment area are identical to that of the Tibetan Plateau. Rainfall in this
area is scare, height of the catchment area drained by river Spiti is between
3048m and 4570m. In this area there is absolutely no vegetation. The melting
snow forms deep flow channels.
iii) Namgia to Wangtu:
This catchment is bounded by moderately high hills with elevation of
1960m to 3045 m and has little rainfall but heavy snow. The snow line in this
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Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
region Is at 3048 m. The flows In the river are mainly due to snow meeting
which follow more or less a regular pattern. The well formed pine forests near
Karcham Wangtu give way to 'Chllgoza' plantation at all higher elevation. This
area has steep slopes with little earth cover and experiences very little rain,
when snow falls, water enter Into crevices, where It freezes during winter
crackes and cruches the rocks. The subsequent loads of snow accelerate this
phenomenon. When the snow melt the dislnterlgeratlon debris slide with the
water Into the river. The cycle repeat year after year.
iv) Wangtoo to Bhakra:
The annual rainfall of this catchment Is about 1000mm. The area Is
forested with scattered to dense patches of trees. There agricultural
development has taken place several locations mainly along the river on
flatter slopes. The average slope of the river between Rampur to Bhakra Is
about 1m to 300. The area from Kol dam to Govind sagar lies in Slwallk
range. Rainfall is heavy and silt loads are high. This area is in the lower
catchment of the Slwallk range with rise to about elevation 2100m.
4.2 TRIBUTARIES JOINING SATLUJ RIVER
It was found that along the entire stretch of Satluj, several number of
tributaries join them. The main tributaries of river Satluj meeting at right bank
are Spltl, Ropa Taiti, Kashang, Mulgaon, Yula, Wanger, Throng, Rupl, The
main tributaries of river Satluj meeting at left bank are Tirung, Gayathing,
Baspa, Duling, Shoulding, Manglad, Nogli.
4.2.1 Spit! River
The Spiti River originates from Kunzum range and travels 150 km in
KInnaur district before confluencing with Satluj at Khab. In its initial stretch it
flows as Takche nala, which also receives water from the Chandra Tal lake.
Further downstream near Losar, Takche nala receives water from PInglung
Tokpo and Kabjima nala on Its left bank. Downstream of Losar, numerous
streams join the Spltl valley on Its either bank. The Left bank streams are
Thanmo Nala, Takling Nala, and Stream from Parang La, Shila Nala, Shaman
nala, Karathi nala and Parechu river. Important right bank streams of Spltl are
Ratang river. Pin River and Yang Cho. Huge mountains rise to very high
106
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
elevations on either side of Spiti River and its numerous tributaries. Most part
of the Spiti catchment is barren rocky land covered with thick moraines.
Settlements are mostly clustered near the Spiti channel. The main settlements
in the Spiti valley are Hansi and Dhankar Gompa (CAT PLAN, 2005).
LEFT BANK STREAMS
i) Thanmo Nala : It is a snowfed and springfed stream which joins the
Spiti river near Hansi.
ii) Takling Nala : It flows from the Takling La lake and flowing towards
south joins Spiti in the downstream of Kiato.
iii) Stream from Parang La lake: It flows southward and confluences with
Spiti near Ki.
iv) Shila Nala : This is a lake fed and spring fed stream which confluences
with Spiti near Rangrik.
v) Shaman Nala : It is a glacier fed and lake fed stream and has a large
catchment. It flows towards south west and receives water from
Shijibang and Kiabri nala on its left bank and Khukhe nala on its right
bank before draining into Spiti in the downstream of Lidang.
vi) Karathi Nala : It is a small stream, which joins with Spiti near Hurling.
vii) Parechu River : This is a lake fed and glacier fed tributary stream of
Spiti, which confluences near Samdoh. It originates in India and flows
through Tibetan part of China. In 2005, the Parechu Lake in the
headwater region of the Parechu River was blocked by landslide and
subsequent breaching of the landslide dam resulted in a flash flood.
The level of water in Parechu was raised up to 15 m.
RIGHT BANK STREAMS
i) Ratang River : This is a small spring fed and snow fed stream, which
flows towards north east and confluences with Spiti near Ratang.
ii) Pin River : It is a glacier fed, snow fed and spring fed stream and has
a large catchment. Parahio River which receives water from Debsa
Khad, Khamengar River and Kidul Chu drains into the Pin channel near
107
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Sagnam. Parahio river also receives water from the Larang La lake.
Pin river confluences with the Spiti valley on its right bank near Dankar.
iii) Stream from Yang Cho lake: This is a small stream which flows
northward from Yang Cho lake and confluences with Spiti river near
Mane.
4.2.2 TirungKhad
Tirung Khad is a left bank tributary of Satluj which flows from a 5362 m
high peak. It is a glacier fed and snow fed stream which receives water from
several small streams joining it on either bank. In its initial stretch it is known
as Charang Khad. The left bank tributaries are Dipgyamba Khad, Mangia
Khad, Lungsho Khad, Domuna, Lambar Khad, Gara Khad and Duba Khad.
The streams joining it on its right bank are Jongchhutanso, Kuna Khad,
Shakutang, Shangchang, Shankvi Khad and Rovang.
4.2.3 Baspa River
Baspa is an important left bank tributary which originates from the
Baspa hills, drains the Sangia valley and confluences on the left bank of Satluj
near Karcham in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh (Photo Plate 4.1). This
river has a catchment of 1000 sq km. Baspa receives water from many
smaller channels draining snow and glacier water. The Baspa river channel is
oriented across the main Himalayan range. The left bank tributaries of Baspa
are Karu, Shanchay, Jorya Garang, Janpa Garang, Nardu Garang, Shaune
Garang, Hurba Khad, Rokti Khad, Shaung Khad and Baura Khad. The
streams joining Baspa on its right bank are smaller compared to the left bank
streams (DRP Lurhi, 2007).
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Photo Plate 4.1 : Confluences of Baspa on the left bank of Satluj near Karcham
Some important tributary streams on the right bank are: Tumar,
Rimdarang, Shilpya, Shushang, Mangsa and Gor Garang. Most part of the
Catchment of Baspa river is covered with thick vegetation.
i) Ropa Gad
It is a glacier fed right bank tributary which drains an oval shaped basin
around Gibong.
ii) Tagta Khad
This is a glacier fed stream which confluences with Satluj river on its
left bank at 2280 m. In its initial stretch it flows from Topuk Cave as
Gyamthing Gad.
iii) Sumun Gad
This is a small spring fed and snow fed stream which originates on the
southern slope of 3240 m peak and flows for 8.16 km. In the head water
region it drains the slopes of pine rich Galol PF. Below 2450 m its catchment
has barren rocky slopes, cultivated terraces and settlements. In the lower
reach it drains the slopes of Shikarwah PF.
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
4.2.4 NogliKhad
Nogli Khad is a snow fed and rain fed stream which join Satluj at Nogli.
In its initial course it flows from east to west between Jalsu Thorna - Buj
Dhar- Pal Dhar - Tracha Dhar -Krunshi Kharag Dhar ridge in the south and
Gangdapi Dhar - Jang Dhar - Dhaola Dhar ridge in the north. It originates as
Sageti Gad in the east of a 5236 m high peak on Kumashi Kharang Dhar,
flows for 38 km and finally merges with Satluj on its right bank at 910 m near
Nogli village. In the head water region the Nogli Khad flows south ward from
4600 m as Sageti Gad in the valley between Satmal Dhar in the west and
Kumshi Kharang Dharin the east. At 3600 m, it receives water from another
snow fed and spring fed stream flowing on the western slope of Krunshikring
(5088 m) peak, where from it flows towards south east. Above 3400 m
elevation there is no vegetation in this stretch. The river takes a westward turn
at 3240 m. At 3160 m the Sageti Gad receives water on its right bank from a
stream originating on the south east slope of Hansbeshan (5240 m) peak.
This stream flows in the valley between Ratonal Dhar in the west and Satmal
Dhar in the east. The river maintains westward course up to 2960 m elevation
and then turns towards northeast up to 2600 m. At 2600 m Sageti Gad
receives water from Devka Pani on its right bank and flows downstream as
Nogri gad. In the downstream of Thar Gad, Negri gad flows as Nogli Gad. All
of the streams joining Nogli Gad have high gradient.
4.2.5 Kurpan Gad
It is a snow fed and spring fed stream. It originates as Umli Gad on the
southern slopes of a 5048 m high peak. It flows 37 km in a channel and
confluences with Satluj river on its left bank at 865 m. Its catchment above
3200 m elevation is barren rocky land. In its upper catchment, Garlandi PF is
spread on its left bank and Dwaridanda PF is spread on the right. In the head
water region three snow fed streams join together above 3700 m and feed the
Umli Gad channel. Between 2200 m and 3200 m the catchment is covered
with thick vegetation. After the confluence with Dewar Gad, Umli Gad is
named as Kurpan Gad. In this stretch below 1075 m, Kurpan gad watershed
is either barren rocky land or covered with cultivated terraces and settlements.
All the tributaries of Kurpan Gad have high gradients.
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
4.2.6 Machhad Gad
Machhad Gad originates from Mara! Kanda (3732 m) peak and flows
23 km towards northwest and drains into Satluj at 870 m. It is a spring fed and
snow fed stream. Most part of its catchment on its left bank is covered with
forest. However, on the right bank a major portion is barren rocky land and
covered with cultivated terraces and settlements. In the initial stretch
Machhad Gad flows as Seri Gad Khad, then as Gatera Khad after the
confluence with Sungt Mali. Further downstream, in the region downstream of
the confluence with Dhuni Nala, it flows as Machhada Khad and below 1520
m it flows for 6 km stretch as Machhad Gad. There are a few small right bank
tributaries of Machhad Gad. On the other hand the left bank catchment is
wide with some large tributaries draining, the area. Dogar Khad is a large
tributary stream of Machhada Khad, which confluences at 1200 m elevation
near Sharkot. Machhada Khad flows as Machhad Gad from Sharkot to its
confluence with Satluj river at 870 m in the south of Hul Dhar. Within this 6 km
flow it drains the slopes covered with cultivated terraces, settlements and
barren rocky lands. In this 6 km stretch only scrubs cover the mountain
slopes.
4.2.7 NaharuNal
It is a spring fed stream which flows towards southwest from a 3022 m
high peak. In the head water region it drains the pine rich Lotkaon PF and the
pine rich Shila PF in the west bank. It receives water from Nagali Gad at 1120
m near Piptodhar. Most part of the Nagali Gad catchment is covered with
settlements and cultivable terraces. Naharu Nal joins the Satluj river on its
right bank at 860 m in the downstream of Shanah village.
I l l
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
76''3CrO'E I
nim-E I
78^(rE
I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN
CONTOUR w E - £
<rw <̂̂
Elevation (in IVIeters)
Contour Interval 20 Mtrs /^ ' <all other values>
/^ Below 1000
1001 - 2000
2001 - 3000
3001-4000
4001 - 5000
Above 5000 0 10 20 40 60 80 I iKms "g
I
Fig 4.2
112
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
4.3 THE RIVER PROFILE
River Satluj rises after its origin at Rakas-Tal Mansarovar, enters the
Indian territory at Shipkilla, and takes a north-westerly course. In Tibetan
Province of Nari Khorsam the Satluj is joined by several tributaries in Nari
Khorsam such as Zhangchu, Drama Yanketi, Chonaki, Manglam, Transu,
Sumna, Trape etc. Immediately after entering the Indian Territory near
Shipkilla the river takes a South Westerly direction on its way to Bhakra gorge
about 320 km away after crossing which it emerges into the plains of the
Punjab. The principal tributaries of the Satluj below Shipkila are the Spiti,
Kashano, Baspa, Sholding, Sorang, Chaniv, Moblad, Nogli, Kurpan, Bharari,
All, and Ghambar Khad.
The Satluj crosses the Great Himalayas at a point where the range
bifurcates. At Rampur it crosses, the Dhauladhar Range and the Naina Devi
range, where the Bhakra Dam is situated in the last of the series. Between
Suni and Debar the river takes a somewhat north-western direction. After
Debar the river turns in a south- westerly direction to reach the foots of Naina
Devi Range. The Nania Devi range deflect the river again in a north westerly
direction where it flows parallel to the range for about 32 km before cutting
through it at Bhakra gorge.
Numerous glaciers large and small drain into the Satluj at various point
on its course and its principal source are the east glaciers of the Ganglug
Gaungni, the Southern glaciers of the Ganglug Gaungni. The Northern glacier
of the peak Kailas which flow into the Satluj through the lake of Rakstal also
contribute to the streams. The glacier of peak Riwa phargul which stands in
the Satluj catchment also flows into it. There are many Himalayan glaciers
draining into its tributaries. The total catchment area of the Satluj above the
Bhakra Dam site is about 56875 sq km. The drainage area is comparatively
narrow with an average with of about 35 km. This part of the catchment has
an area of 7055 sq.km (2725 sq. miles). Above Nathpa the catchment is
considerably wider than below it. The river Satluj drains an area of about
50880 sq. km at Rampur hydro project discharge site.
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN SLOPE
Index
Slope (In Degrees)
^ 1 ^ Below 15
C ^ ^ 30.1 -45
C 3 5 45.1 -60
^ ^ ^ Above 60
N
&
0 10 20 40 60 80 iKms
Fig. 4.3
114
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
The fall of Satluj from its source to the plains of India is very uniform.
The height of the bed is about 4570 m near RaksTal, 2530 m near Shipkila
falls, 915 m at Rampur, 416 m at Bilaspur and 350 m at the Bhakra dam site.
The valley is narrow in the portion form Shipkila to Pooh and from Thopan to
Rampur and in the portion between Pooh to Thopan and Rampur to Bhakra
the valley is comparatively wider. It is widest in the portion immediately
upstream of Bhakra. The bed slope of river is from Shipki la to Tanvi for a
distance of about 43 km which is of the order 1 in 175. It becomes steep
between Jangi and Rampur, the slope being 1 in 87 and is again flatter from
Rampur to kol site with a slope of 1 in 300. It is the flattest in the Bhakra
reservoir area, the portion downstream of the Kol Dam where the bed slope is
1m in 500.
4.3.1 Gradient Profile
The fall of Satluj from its source in Tibet to the plains of Punjab is very
uniform and averages about 6 m per km. Most of the tributary streams joining
the Karcham-Rampur stretch have higher gradient; it varies from 1:2 to 1:5
with most of the streams having a gradient of below 1:4. These streams have
the potential to bring large amount of sediments into the trunk channel. In the
free draining catchment, the Sumun Gad, Nogli Gad, Kurpan Gad and
Machhad Gad have gradients of 1:4, 1:9, 1:10 and 1:16, respectively. The
large tributary streams Spiti and Baspa have gradients of 1:50 and 1:23 (LHP,
2003). The contour map for satluj is shown in fig 4.3
4.3.2 Relief
The relief in the catchment varies from 620 to 5240 m. The lowest point
in the catchment is 620 m at the Satluj river bed and the highest point is 5240
m peak in the Nogli Gad watershed.
4.3.3 Slope
The mountain slopes in the catchment were divided into four major
slope categories viz. Gently sloping (0-15% slope). Moderately Sloping (16-
40% slope), Steep (41-60% slope), and Very steep (>60% slope).The
mountain slopes in half of the catchment area is near about 50.% are
moderately steep. Steep slopes cover 40% of the catchment. Strongly sloping
115
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
and gently sloping areas cover 7.45% and 7.10% of the catchment area,
respectively. Moderately sloping areas cover 4.54% of the catchment, while
very steep slopes cover only 0.28% of the catchment (fig 4.4).
4.3.4 Aspect
The flat areas in the catchment mostly occur alongside the Satluj river
channel where large terraces have developed as well as at the mountain tops,
particularly in the Guma Khad catchment. These flat areas in the catchment
cover only 4.59% of the total land area in the catchment. The slopes with SW-
W-NW aspect have minimal coverage in the catchment covering 3.35% of the
catchment area. The slopes with NE-E-SE aspect are predominant in the
catchment, which cover 32.40% of the catchment area. The NW-N-NE and
SE-S-SW slopes cover 28.65% and 31.01% of the catchment area,
respectively (See Fig 4.4).
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Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN ASPECT
N
S
Index
I iF'at I B North
I''' I Northeast
m i East m m Southeast
1 ^ 1 South
1 ^ 1 Southwest
BlvVest ^ ^ 1 Northwest
m H North
0 10 20 40 60 80 iKms
Fig. 4.4
117
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTECRISTIC OF SATLUJ BASIN
The climatic conditions of the Satluj River Basin are strongly influenced
by orthographic effects. Elevation of 1525 m is the approximate boundary
between areas receiving the majority of precipitation in the form of rain and
those receiving mostly snow. The catchment in the Tibet receive practically no
rainfall and precipitation is mostly in the form of snow. The catchment
receives precipitations due to south-west monsoons as well as due to the
western disturbances that pass over the north-west part of the country during
winter. South west monsoon generally last from June to September but may
occasionally extend up to early October. Precipitation during this period falls
as rain is generally not heavy but at times may contribute significantly towards
flood run-off. The winter precipitation falls either as rain or snow depending
upon attitude and other meteorological conditions and may be very heavy on
occasions but may not contribute directly to river discharge significantly and
mostly goes to feed the snow bound glacier of the catchment.
The annual precipitation pattern is dominated by the monsoon from
June to September during which 48% of the total rainfall occurs. The
catchment in Himachal Pradesh may be divided into two portions i.e.
downstream of Rampur where rainfall is more and upstream of Rampur where
the rainfall is less (fig 4.5). ..
4.4.1 Temperature
In the basin, the temperature generally starts rising from the beginning
of the month of March till June which is the hottest month of the year. The
mean minimum and maximum temperatures observed are around 15.6° C
and 24 C° respectively. With the onset of monsoons by the end of June,
temperature begins to fall. The rate of drop in day temperature is considerably
less than the rate of drop in night temperature. After the withdrawal of
monsoons by mid-September, the night temperature falls rapidly. The month
of January is coolest month with the mean maximum and minimum
temperatures of around 8.9°C and 1.7°C respectively. During winters under
the influence of western disturbances, the temperature falls appreciably and it
may go even below 0°C.
118
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
78'0'0"E 78*30'0"E
76°30-0"E 78°0'0"E
Fig. 4.5
119
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
4.4.2 Humidity
Humidity levels recorded in the basin are generally low throughout the
year except during monsoon months. During summer season, humidity is
lowest (36%) while in monsoon season it goes as high as 80-90%. The
highest levels of humidity (91%) are observed in the month of August. The
average humidity during synoptic hours is 53% and 62% respectively.
4.4.3 Soil Quality in the Basin
In catchment area of Shimla district, the soil is generally shallow in
depth except in the areas having vegetation cover where it is fairiy deep. In
the regions above 1,500 m the soil is generally deep. Largely the soil can be
classified as podzols, brown podzols, humus and iron podzols. These are
acidic in nature with the organic content ranging from medium to high.
Nutritional survey of soil and plant analysis suggest that the soils by and large
have low levels of Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Boron (B) and Molybdenum
(NBBS, 2000).
4.4.4 Sedimentation Aspects
The Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board had initiated a
sediment-sampling programme at several gauging stations in the actual river
system. The long time series sampling intervals have helped various studies
in assessing future impacts on the actual projects.
The total suspended load for the Spiti River has been reported to be
7.66 million tones/year and for Satluj River of 7.30 million tones. The sediment
transport is estimated by multiplying the discharge by the sediment
concentration. The discharge estimates are based on known cross sections
and velocity measurement carried out with the help of wooden float, floating
for 30m along the river (Sharma, 1991). In this context, it should be noted
that the annual discharge of Spiti River is at average twice the annual
discharge of Satluj River upstream of Khab. The annual sediment transport for
the Spiti has been reported to be equal to 7.84 million tones and 7 million tons
for Satluj.
Snowmelt and the related erosion processes (rapid mass wasting in
combination with glacier run-off) and the local influences (i.e. process
120
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
activities closer to the sampling point) are of great importance. These
processes vary in magnitude and frequency between individual years and
therefore the concentration figures cannot fit into a standard sediment-rating
curve.
4.4.5 Natural Fauna
4.4.5.1 Forest Cover in Satluj Basin
Due to large differences in altitude and precipitation, the vegetation
types in this region range from tropical to alpine. In the lower regions, the
vegetation type is tropical. The temperature in this part is high and receives a
large amount of rainfall especially during the monsoon. The prevailing forest
types In this part are mainly sal and mixed deciduous. On the southern slopes
of the Himalayas, the temperature is low, reaching even zero degree in winter.
Temperate forests consist of temperate mixed deciduous coniferous forests,
blue pine forests, deodar forests and oak forests. These areas receive a very
large amount of rainfall during the monsoon, because of convection of the
monsoon clouds that come from the south. At higher altitudes climate
changes into alpine, being very dry and often temperature below zero in
winter. Because of these low temperatures and very small amount of
precipitation, most of this region is barren (Negi, 1989).
Distribution of various species follows fairly regular altitudinal
stratification. The vegetation varies from dry scrub forests at lower altitudes to
alpine pastures at higher altitudes. In between these two extremes, distinct
vegetation zones of mixed deciduous forests, bamboo, chil, oak, deodar, kail,
fir and spruce, are found. The altitudinal variation in Satluj basin leads to
variation on forest types. The various forest types reported in Satiuj basin is
as below:
121
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Table No. 4.1 Major Forest Types of Satluj Basin
1 Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest
2 Himalayan Subtropical Pine Forest
3 Dry bamboo Breks
4 Himalayan Sub Alpine Fir Forest
5 Himalayan Kharso oak Forest
6 Himalayan Dry Tempreate Freest
7 Mixed Broad leaved Coniferous Forest
8 Coniferous Pine Forest
9 Western Mixed Coniferous Forest
(Source: Unpublished Records, Department of Forest, Government of HImachal)
4.4.5.2 Wildlife in Entire Satluj Basin
Wide altitudinal ranges and varied topography of Satluj basin has
resulted in making the state a very rich repository of wild fauna and flora.
Wildlife of an area is directly related to the characteristics of the habitat i.e.
availability of the food and water, nature and density of flora prevalent in the
area along with other factors like slope, climate, prevalent anthropogenic
activities, etc.
The fauna of the upper basin i.e. cold desert is of special concern as
most of the endangered, endemic and rare species of wildlife are reported
form this region. A large variety of carnivore of endangered/ rare status such
as Snow Leopard, Himalayan Brown Bear, Black Bear, Himalayan weasel,
Yellow Throated martin, Wooly hair Wolf, and Common Leopard, the
herbivores are of various types of which Ibex, Serow, Blue Sheep, Thar, Musk
deer, Ghoral and Barking deer. The lower basin of the Satluj represents the
different fauna such as Jungle cat, Bengal Fox, Indian Porcupine, Wild Boar,
Common Palm Civet, Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Ghoral and
Leopard amongst mammals and pheasants including Cheer and White
Crested Kaleej abound.
122
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
4.4.5.3 Geology and Rock Structure of Satluj Basin
Geologically the Himalayas are one of the youngest erogenic belts and
therefore, represent sunstainble regions of the earth. Since the Himalayas lie
in the sutures of Indian and Chinese plates, regular tectonic movements have
taken place including frequent earthquakes, landslides, etc. Regionally the
Satluj Basin area belongs to Jutogh series of formation, which is corelatable
to the archaen group of rocks. These are oldest sedimentary system which
have been metamorphosed and occur more or less as a continuous band
between the central axis of higher Himalayas and the outer ranges. The
Jutogh series comprise of gneisses, quartzites, slates, limestones and schists.
In the area, south of Khab in Kinnaur District up to Spillo, and around Satluj
River, the rocks in general are highly folded granites, phyllites, low grade
schist, slates granite, and schists .
Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of Himachal portion of Satluj basin has
been prepared to understand the elevation characteristics (Fig 4.6). DEM is a
raster image depicting continuous changes in elevation values. The lighter
shades depict higher values of elevations while the darker ones show the
lower values of elevations.
Land use type in Satluj Basin
The steep valley extending up from the valley floor upto an elevation of
2800 m is predominantly grassland and settlements with some forest stands
and shrub cover. From elevation ranging from 2800 to 3700 m, the forest
growth is dense due to lesser human interferences. Above the treeline, alpine
meadows extend to the exposed rock of the mountain peaks. A variety of
Pines {Pinus longifolia, Pinus wallichiana, Pinus gerardina), Deodar {Cedrus
deodara), Spruce (Picea smithiana) and Fir {Abies pindrow), form a broad belt
of vegetation along both sides of the Satluj valley and the side streams
between the cliffs of the gorge.
123
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
TCaCCTE
I I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN
ELEVATION
N
S _g
Elevation (In Meters) ^ ^ ^ Below 1000
^ ^ 1001 - 2000
( ^ ^ 2001 - 3000
( ; [ ^ 3001 - 4000
^ ^ 4001 - 5000
^ ^ ^ Above 5000
I TTTTCTE
0 10 20 40 60 80 iKms
Fig. 4.6
124
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Table 4.2 Land use Type in Study Area
1 Agriculture land 10.95
2 Fallow land 0.05
3 Plantation 0.25
4 Land without scrubs 1.68
5 Forest land 24.96
6 Water bodies 0.69
7 Snow covered area 37.87
8 Settlements 0.21
9 Barren land 20.16
10 Grassland 3.16
(Source : Satellite Imagery, Landsat ETM+, 2005)
Gerardians (Chilgoza Pine) abound the area and its edible nuts fetch
good prices to the locals and it is their main source of income. On the left side
of the valley with northern exposure, forests are observed at a much lower
elevation towards the river than they do on the right bank, as reduction in
exposure to sunlight restricts the spread of vegetation. Scrub predominantly in
cold desert area from 3600 to 5500 m. The vegetation is sparse discontinuous
and scattered represented by shrubs having high medicinal values. The
cultivation is possible in small terraces of holdings in the high hills and the
khad basins in most parts. In the valleys cultivation is spread over vast areas.
It is only in the valleys that the land is flat and cultivation is done (Fig. 4.7).
4.5 HYDRO ELECTRIC POTENTIAL OF RIVER SATLUJ
As per the study on "Reassessment of Hydro electric Potential carried
out by CEA during 1978-87, a total of 30 HE schemes (Fig 4.8) with a
potential of 7661 MW at 60% load factor and corresponding to a probable
installed capacity of 11574 MW were identified in the Satluj sub basin.
4.5.1 Hydro Projects under Operation In Satluj Basin
Seven major and medium hydro projects located in Himachal Pradesh
with installed capacity of 4446.75 MW are under operation in the Satluj Basin
the projects are as:
125
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
i) Nathpa Jhakri Project-1500MW
The 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Project being implemented by Nathpa
Jhakri Power Corporation Ltd. (NJPC) a public sector undertaking under the
Ministry of Power, derives its name from the names of two villages in the
vicinity Nathpa (District Kinnaur) and Jhakri (Distt.Shimla). Nathpa is a village
in district Kinnaur where the Dam and desilting chambers of NJHEP have
been constructed. Nathpa is situated in Nichar Block of Kinnaur District.
Jhakri on the left bank of river Satluj in the district Shimla, at a distance of
about 12 Km from Rampur Bushahr.
The project has had a chequered history and has remained in
controversy all through. The Project was conceived in the late 1960s when
Mr. K.L. Rao, the then Union Minister for Irrigation and power, visited the site
and found the project an attractive proposition. Then its foundation stone was
laid by Mr. Bhajan Lal, the then Haryana Chief Minister in 1981. However, it
turned out to be a non-starter. Another effort to start work on the project was
made in 1989 after forming a joint corporation with the centre having a 75%
equity. The project got going after the late Prime Minister, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi,
launched the construction work with the inaugural blast on April 13, 1989.
The country's largest hydroelectric project, earned the distinction of
having the largest underground desilting complex, Asia's largest underground
power house and one of the longest power tunnel in the world. In all 58 lakh
cubic metres of earth was excavated for the project which was equivalent to
drilling a hole of 75 cm diameter across the globe. The excavated material
could be spread into 8 m wide and12.5 cm thick carpet on the Great Wall of
China. In all 3.20 lakh tonnes of steel was used which was enough to lay a
rail line alone the quadrilateral connecting the four metropolis of the country.
The 14 million bags of cement used in the project will be sufficient to provide a
75 cm wide pavement around the earth.
126
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
r" _ J I TS'SO'O-E
I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN
LANDUSE / LANDCOVER w
I 78'Offt
Fig. 4.7
127
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Electric Project Some Salient Features
NathpaJhakri Hydro Electric Project (1500 MW) is a run of the river
scheme. It has a concrete gravity diversion dam at Nathpa village of Kinnaur
district of Himachal Pradesh to divert 486 cumecs of water through 4 Nos
power intake (Souvenir, 2003). After diversion, water is desilted through
desilting chambers which can desilt the particles upto the size of 0.2 mm.
Each chamber which is 525 m long 16.31 m wide and 27.50 m deep the
largest underground complex for the desiltation of water in the world. The
desilted water then is carried through a 27.39 km long head race tunnel
having 10.15 m diameter which terminates in a 21.6/10.2 m dia and 301m
deep surge shaft. The tunnel of the project is longest power tunnel in the
world and the surge shaft also has a distinction being the deepest in the
world.
There are three circular steel lines pressure shafts, each of 4.90 m dia
and 571 to 622 m length each bifurcating into two Branch Tunnels of 3.491 m
dia to fed six generating units of 250 MW each.
The six generating units with Francis turbines of 250 MW each in an
underground Power House with a cavern size of 222 m x 20 m x 49 m to
utilize a design discharge of 405 cumecs and a design head of 425 m.
The water then passes through Draft Tubes to the collection gallery for
discharging the water back into the river Satluj through 10.15 m dia 982 m
long Tail Race Tunnel and Tail Race outfall structure (Water and energy
2008).
The project also has an underground Transformer Hall having size of
196 m X 17.5 m X 27.4 m and a surface Switch Yard for evacuation of Power
Grid Corporation Ltd. Power is evacuated to Northern Grid through 400 KV
transmission systems. The first unit of 250 MW of the country's largest project
was commissioned on 14"̂ October, 2003. The balance units of 250 MW each
were commissioned on May, 2004.
128
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
76"30'0"E 77-0'0"E 7r30"0"E 78°0'0"E 78°30'0"E
s-^ 1
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN HYDRO-ELECTRIC PROJECTS w-
Legend
Drainage
* HEPs Proposed
it HEPs Under Construction
if HEPs Under Operation
77*30*0"E 78°0'0"e 78°30'0"e
Fig. 4.8
129
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
ii) Bhakra Dam -1200MW
The construction of this dam was started in the year 1948 and was
completed in 1963. It is 740 ft. high above the deepest foundation as straight
concrete dam being more than three times the height of Qutab Minar. Bhakra
Dam is the highest Concrete Gravity dam in Asia and Second Highest in the
world. There are two power houses namely Left Bank Power Plant and Right
Bank Power Plant. It is a Concrete straight gravity with Height above the
deepest foundation equal to 225.55 metres (740 feet) Its Height above river
bed is 167.64 metres (550 feet). The elevation at top of dam above mean sea
level is equal to 518.16 metres (1700 feet). The total installed capacity of left
bank power plant is 450 MW - 5 units of 90 MW each and of the right bank
power plant is 600 MW - 5 units of 120 MW each detail.
iii) Karcham - Wangtoo Hydroelectric Project-1000 MW
Karcham - Wangtoo Hydel Project has been contemplated as a power
generation development on Satluj river in District Kinnaur of Himachal
Pradesh. The project has been allotted to M/S Karcham Hydro Corporation
Ltd. New Delhi. The annual generation of this project has been envisaged
4560 MU. The MOD for the execution of the project was signed between the
HP Govt, and M/s Jai Parkash Industries Ltd., New Delhi on 28.8.93 and
implementation agreement was signed on 18.11.99 followed by a Tripartite
Agreement between the Govt, of HP, M/s Jai Parkash Industries Ltd., and M/s
Jaypee Karcham Hydro Corporation Ltd., on 30.12.2002. This project
comprises of the following components:
1. A concrete gravity dam about approx. 98 m high above the deepest
foundation level.
2. The dam has a 6 sluice spillway bays of size 9 m (W) x 9 m (H).
3. A 10.48 m diameter, 17.2 km long head race tunnel,
4. 4 nos. pressure shafts of 4.75 m dia, 290.5 m long each
5. An underground power-house with 4 x 250 MW installed capacity,
transformer hall
6. A 909 m long, 10.48 m dia tail race tunnel.
130
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
iv) Baspa Hydel Project -il (300 M W)
The MOU and implementation agreement of execution of the Baspa -II
HEP were signed by the Himachal government with M/s Jai Parkash
Industries Ltd. New Delhi during 1991-1992. The power purchase agreement
had been signed on 4.6.97 and supplementary PPA signed on 28.2.2003. The
financial package stands submitted to CEA of the Himachal government for
approval. M/s JHPL had given the three units as 15.4.2003, 30.4.2003 and
15.5.2003 respectively.
This hydro electric project is located on river Baspa with three unit of
100 MW each. The project was commissioned during May 2003.The project
comprises of the following components:
1. A 67.0 m long barrage on river Baspa
2. 4 no. radial gates, 4 no .barrages bays each having 13 m width.
Out Fall of Baspa HEP
Photo Plate 4.2
131
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
3. The live storage available between FRL 2531 m and MDDL 2527.5 m
Is 0.75 M cum.
4. A HRT 4.0 m dia, 7951 m long.
5. An underground surge shaft, 6/8 dIa, 121m high
6. 3.1 pressure shaft 95.18m long.
7. An underground power house with a total installation of 300 MW .
iv) Sanjay Vidhut Pariyojna (Bhaba)-120 MW
The Bhaba hydro electric project is a run off the river scheme located in
the tribal district of Kinnaur, of Himachal Pradesh. The Pariyojana, utilizes the
water of the Babha Khad, a tributary of the of the river Satluj. This scheme
envisage construction of a partially gated low wire across the Bhaba Khad at
Kafnoo village to divert a discharge of 17 cumes with capacity of 120 MW of
power in an underground power house operating under a gross head of 931.5
m. A 50 X 25 m X 6 m. disilting tank designed for eliminating particles upto
size 0.2mm, a concrete lined storaged reservoir with a line storage capacity of
about 19.4 m, a 2.5 m. D shaped 5.5 Km. long head race tunnel, a restricted-
orifice type 4.5 m dia. and 92 m. high surge tank and a penstock 2.14/1.94 m.
dia, 1423 m long trifurcating near the powerhouse complex into 150 m.
diameter branches and a 4m. D shaped at an altitude of 8000 feet. The power
house comprises the value house carven 50 x 6 x 12 m. high, the machine
hall caven 71 x 14 x 18 m. high .housing three vertical axis pelton turbine
driven generating units of 40 MW each and a transformers cum switchyard
cavern 71 x 14 x 18 m. high, housing the transformers. Bhaba project is
popularty known as Sanjay Vidhut Pariyojana.
v) Ghanvi (I) -22.5 MW
This power station with two units of 11.25 MW each is located on
Ghanvi khad, a tributary of Satluj River, near Jeori town in Shimla district.
During a year this power house generated 82.595 MU of power and the
maximum demand was recorded as 23.1 MW and this power house is
connected with the main grid, through 22/66/220 LV sub- station Kotla.
132
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
vi) Bhaba Augmentation Power House Project- 4.5 MW
The scheme is located near Kafnoo village in Kinnaur district. The 4.5
MW installed capacity envisaged a surface power house located about 500 m
upstream of Bhaba weir on left bank, utilizing a gross head of 157 m.
4.5.2 Hydroelectric Projects under Construction in Satluj Basin
I) Kol Dam Project- 800MW
The 800 MW Kol Dam Hydroelectric Project is on Satluj River, about 9
Km upstream of 900 MW Dehar Power Plant of Bhakra and Beas
Management Board on the border of Mandi and Bilaspur districts. The entire
water of the Satluj was diverted through the two diversion tunnels of 14 m.
diameter and length measuring 900 and 934 m. respectively as these tunnels
divert the water of Satluj to a point about 1 Km downstream to facilitate the
construction work of 163 m water high rock cum gravel filled dam with
impervious clay core.
The foundation stone of the gigantic project was laid on June 2000.
The kol Dam Project had been conceived way back in mid 60s, as a major
hydroelectric venture. The first project report of 600 MW capacities had been
submitted to the Central Electricity Authority in 1976. Later, it was revised and
modified to 800 MW which was run off the river scheme in May 1987 and a
techno-economic clearance was granted to it by HPSEB in August 1988. This
project is being executed by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).
Kol Dam parallel horse shoe- shaped tunnel of 16.4m diameter one of the
largest in Asia has been completed. Work on other components, including
crest spillway, coffer dams, desilting chambers, power intake and penstock
tunnels is on progress. Also a sprawling 40 Km long reservoir will emerge
upstream of the dam axis submerging over 1,500 hectares of land in Bilaspur,
Mandi, Solan and Shimla districts. This lake will extend up to Tattapani (Photo
Plate 5.30)
133
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
76*30'0"E 7rO'0"E •
TTSOITE 78"0'0"E 78°30'0"E I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN HEPs UNDER OPERATION
N
S
Legend Drainage
•^ HEPs Under Operation 0 15 30 60 90 120 iKms
Fig. 4.9
134
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
At the toe of the dam, a surface power house is being constructed.
Four vertical Francis turbines of 200 MW each are being installed. The project
is basically a run of the river scheme. Also direct drop of 140 metres from the
163 metre-high dam itself would be utilized for generating power. The project
will generate 3,054 million units of power. Of the total power generation,
Himachal Pradesh would get 27% including 12 % free of cost and the balance
15 % without tariff. The power will be evacuated through 400 KV in targeted
transmission system. The infrastructure activities of the project has been
completed and the work on all major components of the project is in progress.
The project was stated to be commissioned in 2011-12, but is running behind
scheduled time.
ii) Rampur Hydroelectric Power Plant- 412 MW
Rampur Hydroelectric Power Plant is one of the India's largest
electricity producing project. The Rampur Hydroelectric Project is envisaged
with an objective to exploit the potential of river Satluj between tail race outlet
of Nathpa Jhakri Project and village Bael downstream of Rampur. The project
is located about 115 km from Shimla town. The project area falls within the
latitudes 77°35' N to 77°43' N and longitudes 31°23' E to 31°30' E. The project
comprises of intake tunnel, cut and cover river crossing, head race tunnel,
surge shaft, penstock, power house and switchyard, tail race channel,
transmission system. The project is designed to divert water from the tail race
pool of Nathpa Jhakri hydroelectric power project (NJHEP) through a 15 km
head race tunnel to a surface power station (located near the village of Bael
on the right bank of the Sutlej), from where the water will be returned to the
river. The water from the Rampur Intake structure will be conveyed through a
484 m long tunnel before it crosses under the river to the right bank through a
43.2m cut and cover conduit, from where it is conveyed via a 10.50 m
diameter head race tunnel of 15.08 km length terminating at a 140 m high, 38
m diameter Surge Shaft. The water will then enter three surface penstocks of
5.4 m diameter each, which bifurcate into 6 branch tunnels of 3.8 m diameter.
These feed six 68.7 MW Francis turbines, housed in a surface power station.
On completion the project would use a gross head of 139 m to generate
135
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
approximately 412 MW of peaking power and 1,770 GWh of electricity in a
90% hydrological dependable year.
iii) Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project-450MW
Shongtong-Karchham HEP is a runoff river scheme on the river Satluj
in district Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh. The barrage site is near village
Powari and the power house is to be located near village Ralli on left bank of
river Satluj near confluence of river Bapsa with Satluj on NH-22 about 200 km
from Shimla and about 15 km from the district headquarter at Reckong Peo.
The Shongtong Karchham hydro-electric project would generate 450 MW of
energy.
The project envisages the construction of Diversion barrage, intake
structure with 4 intake bays with gates and four intake tunnels passing
through four sedimentation chambers. Head Race Tunnel 8.02 km long
culminating in open surface surge shaft. Three circular steel lined
underground pressure shafts to convey water to 3 francis turbines to generate
(3 X 150 MW) 450 MW of power in an underground power house. Earlier it
was envisaged for 402 MW generation capacity, however, as per approved
hydrology and advice of Central Electricity Authority (CEA) the installed
capacity has been revised to 450 MW taking into consideration the hydrology
more efficient turbine and generator improved flow with in project component
and revised power studies.
iv) Sorang Hydroelectric Project-100MW
The Sorang hydroelectric project is a run of river type development on
Sorang Khad, a tributary of Satluj River in district Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh.
The project consists of construction of trench weir across Sorang Khad at an
elevation of 1943.50 m. The water flow directed shall be fed through 1.540 km
long head race tunnel (HRT) and 183 m long pressure shaft and 970 m long
buried penstock to an underground power house on the left bank of Tikkadda
Khad near the confluence with Satluj river. The Project thus utilizes a head
rated of 667.15 m. to produce 100 MW of power. The power generated at
Sorang HEP is proposed to be fed into HPSEB 220/66KW substation at Kotia
near Jeori and Kunihar in District Solan.
136
Hydro Electric Development In Satluj Basin
The project will export approximately 464 GWh of electricity per
annum. A concrete trench weir with a bottom intake and de-sander is being
constructed across the Khad, approximately 30 m in length and with a
maximum height, from the deepest foundation to the crest of approximately 7
m. The water will be diverted through an interconnecting channel at the
bottom of the weir into a desilting basin before being conveyed into a head
race tunnel, penstock tunnel and surge shaft. The water will pass from the
penstock tunnel into the underground powerhouse that will accommodate two
(2) 50 MW Pelton wheel turbines vertically mounted and coupled with
synchronous generators. The powerhouse will be fitted with a ventilation
tunnel. From the powerhouse the water will be discharged back into Satluj
River, via a tail race tunnel. It will enter the Satluj River immediately
downstream of the power house site. The voltage of the electricity generated
at the generator tenninals will be 11 KW which will be stepped up to 220 KW
at the switchyard of the powerhouse. The switchyard will be located above
ground. The electricity will be exported to the grid via an 18km double circuit
transmission line from SHEP to HPSEB's Kotia Sub-station.
v) Tidong-I Hydroelectric Project - 60MW
Tidong-l Hydroelectric Project located in Kinnaur district of Himachal
Pradesh, is a run-of- the river type development proposed to harness the
hydel potential of river Tidong between Charang and Lambar villages. The
project envisages construction of a concrete gravity dam on the river Tidong
just upstream of Daibu bridge for diversion of a design discharge of 13.45
cumecs, underground desilting arrangement into a 5.036 km long, 2.60 m
finished diameter head race tunnel on the right bank of Tidong river. The
tunnel terminates in a 3.50 m diameter underground surge shaft. The water
from surge shaft shall be further conveyed through 1 no. 2.10 m diameter,
825m long steel surface/underground penstock bifurcating to two generating
units in an underground power house at Lambar. A gross head of 550 m is
available at the power station, which shall be utilized to generate 60MW
(2x30MW) of power.
137
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
vi) Ghanvi Hydroelectric Project Stage-ll 10MW:
Ghanvi Hydro Electric Project Stage-ll is being conceived a run of river
scheme on Ghanvi rivulet, a tributary of Satluj river. The project is located
near Jeori township about 150 Km from Shimla. The power house site is near
Ghanvi which is about 12 Km from Jeori. This scheme envisages construction
of drop type trench weir near village Rungcha to divert the water. This
diverted water will be conveyed through 1.8 m size. D-shaped 1440 m long
Head Race Tunnel and one penstock bifurcating near power house to feed
two turbines in an underground power house to generate 10 MW of power by
utilizing a gross head of 165 m and designed discharge of 7 cumecs. The
annual energy generation in a 75% dependable year is expected to be 41.63
ML). This project is being executed by HPSEB.
vii) Integrated Kashang Hydroelectric Project 243 MW
Integrated Kashang hydroroelectric project envisages development of
Kashang and Kerang Streams, tributaries of the river Sutlej comprising four
distinct stages as under:
Staqe-I 65 IVIW Kashang Stage-1 HEP (66MW)
Kashang Hydroelectric project has been contemplated as a runoff river
scheme utilizing the waters of Kashang khad, a tributary of Satluj River in
Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The power house is located about 221
kilometres from Shimla on NH-22 and its intake site is about 20 kilometres
from Reckong peo. The project would generate 295.13 million units (MW) in
90 % dependable year: Comprising diversion of the Kashang stream, at
EI.2829 m, to an underground powerhouse located on the right bank of Satluj
near Powari Village, developing a head of approximately 830 m.
Stage-ll and III 130 MW:
This stage comprises comprising diversion of the Kerang stream at El.
2872 m into an underground water conductor system leading to upstream end
of Stage-I water conductor system augmenting the generating capacity of
Stage-I powerhouse, using Kerang waters over the 820 m head available in
Kashang Stage-I powerhouse
138
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
viii) Kut Hydro Power Project-24MW
The 24 MW Kut Hydro Power Project is a run-of-the river scheme with
the location in village Kut (trench weir) and Power house at Suru, district
Shimla of Himachal Pradesh. The Project will utilize water from Kut Khad, a
tributary of river Satluj and join it at about 2.5km downstream of power house
location. The project will have total installed capacity of 24 MW (3X8 MW),
which is expected to generate 157.68 MU of energy. Kut Energy Pvt. Ltd
(KEPL) is the developer of the project. The generated electricity by the project
is planned to be supplied to NEWNE grid of India.
4.5.3 Proposed Hydroelectric Projects on Satluj Basin
i) Jang! Thopan Hydroelectric Project 480 MW
Jangi Thopan Hydroelectric Project located In Kinnaur district of
Himachal Pradesh envisages utilization of waters of the river Satluj for power
generation on a run of the river type development, harnessing a head of about
186 m. The project with a proposed installation of 480 MW (3x160 MW) would
afford an annual energy generation of 1779.45 GWh The diversion site is
located at Latitude 31° 32" North, Longitude 78° 30' East.
ii) Thopan Powari Hydroelectric Project (3X160=480 MW)
Thopan-Powari Hydroelectric project located in Kinnaur district of
Himachal Pradesh envisages utilization of waters of the river Satluj for power
generation on a run of the river type development, harnessing a head of about
171.92 m. The project with a proposed installation of 480 MW (3x160 MW)
would afford an annual energy generation of 1786.26GWh The diversion site
is located at Latitude 31° 32" North, Longitude 78° 30' East..
139
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN HEPs UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Legend Drainage
* HEPs Under Construction 0 15 30 60 90 120 iKms
Fig. 4.10
140
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
iii) Luhrl H.E. Project (3X155 =465 MW)
Luhri hydroelectric Project located in Shimla district of Hinnachal
Pradesh envisages utilization of waters of the river Satluj for power generation
on a run of the river type development, harnessing a head of about 128 m.
The project with a proposed installation of 465 MW (3xl55MW) would afford
an annual energy generation of 1825.13. The diversion site is located at
Latitude 30° 15' North, Longitude 77° 15' East. The dam site is about 80 km
from Shimla, the state capital.
iv) Yangthang Khab H.E. Project (3X87 = 261 MW)
Yangthang Khab Hydroelectric Project located in Kinnaur district of
Himachal Pradesh envisages utilization of waters of the river Spiti for power
generation on a run- of-the river type development, harnessing a head of
about 186m.The project with a proposed installation of 261 MW (3x87MW)
would afford an annual energy generation of 938.02 GWh. The diversion site
is located at Latitude 32° 53' North, Longitude 78° 35' East.
V) Tidong (II) H.E. Project (2X35 =70 MW)
Tidong-ll Hydroelectric Project located in Kinnaur district of Himachal
Pradesh envisages utilization of waters of the river Tidong a tributary of Satluj
river for power generation on a run of the river type development, harnessing
a head of about 595.00 m. The project with a proposed installation of 70 MW
(2 X 35 MW) would afford an annual energy generation of 256.18GWh.The
diversion site is located at Latitude 31° 32' North, Longitude 78° 30' East. The
dam site is about 240 km from Shimla, the state capital, on National Highway
22.
vi) Khab-I H.E. Project (3X150=450MW)
The Khab-I HEP located is conceived as a run-of- river development on
river Satluj to tap the hydro power potential of the upper reaches of river Satluj
as it enters in to Indian Territory. The scheme would harness a gross head of
189 m in an installation of 450 MW energy. The diversion work on river Satluj
for this scheme is located at 310 m d/s of Khab, the confluence of river Satluj
& river Spiti in District Kinnaur of HP, about 300 km from Shimla.
141
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
76*30'0"E 77°0'0"E 77'J0'0"E 7B°0'0"E 78°M'0"E I
SATLUJ RIVER BASIN HEPs PROPOSED
Legend
Drainage
* HEPs Proposed
N
S
0 15 30 60 90
Fig. 4.11
120 iKms
7«'30'0"e
142
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
vii) Khab II H.E. Project (3X62 =186 MW)
The Khab-ll HEP located in Northern Power region is conceived as a
tail race development of Khab-I HEP (450MW) to tap the hydropower
Potential of the upper reaches of river Satluj. The scheme would harness a
gross head of 83 m in an installation of 186 MW. The water coming out from
the powerhouse of Khab-I HEP after generation is diverted from outfall
arrangement of Khab-I to 9 m dia HRT through Intake structure. The Intake of
Khab-ll/outfall arrangement for Khab-I is located about 4 km downstream of
Pooh village in District Kinnaur of HP about 265 km from Shimla. The
powerhouse is located on left bank river Satluj upstream of confluence of
Tagia Khad with river Satluj.
4.6 CONCLUSION
In Satluj Basin Hydroelectric projects with Installed Capacity of 4337.05
MW are under construction. The projects not yet developed lies in the high
altitude zone and are almost dependent on snow/glacier melt; with potentially
very complex hydrological impacts from climate change as well as
environment and social issues. The major projects yet to kick start are the
Khab storage reservoir as well as run of the river projects in the Spiti river.
The construction of these large hydel projects in Himachal in general and in
satluj in particular has raised many eyebrows and the people's perception of
the environment impact shall be discussed in chapter five.
4.7 REFERENCES
450 MW KHAB - I H. E. Project Preliminary Feasibility Report (2004),
Government of India, Ministry of Power Central Electricity Authority.
Catchment Area Treatment, Plan of Rampur Hydroelectric Project (2005),
Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd., Shimla.
Champion, H.G. and Seth, S.K. (1968), A Revised Survey of the Forest
Types of India, Department of Forest, Government of India .
DPR LHEP, (2007), Detailed Project Report, Luhri Hydroelectric Project,
Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd., Vol. I, Main Report
143
Hydro Electric Development in Satluj Basin
NBSS, (2000), Soils of Himachal Pradesh for Optimizing Land use,
National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, Nagpur,
Negi, S.S. (1989), Forest types of India, Nepal and Bhutan,. Periodical
Experts Book Agency, Delhi.
Satluj jal Vidut Nigam Ltd. (2003), Souvenir, Cooperate Head Quarter, New
Delhi
Sharma, P.D., Goel, A.K. and Minhas, R.S. (1991), Water and Sediment
Yields into the Satluj River from the High Himalaya. Mountain
Research and Development, Vol.11.
Special issue on 1500 MW Nathpa Jakhri Hydroelectric Project, (2008),
Water and Energy International, Vol. 65, No 2.
Srikantia, S.V., and Bhargava, O.N., (1998), Geology of Himachal
Pradesh, Geological Society of India, Bangalore.
144