NHPC Ltd.
Online published on 6 February, 2020.
The 45 MW Nimoo Bazgo Project, in Leh-Ladakh, is one of the highest located hydro development in the world. The project is located at over 10, 000 feet above msl and temperature varying from-30°C to +40°C. Ladakh is a cold desert and difficult to access with the road remaining closed from November to May. The position of power was pathetic which was dependent on fossil fuels, firewood and a few hydro/diesel stations. The small hydro powers located in the area had problems of reservoir freezing during the winter. Diesel generators were harming the fragile environment of Ladakh. Since concrete placement was not possible in lean flow period due to extreme cold conditions, the construction coincided with high discharge period, and a two stage diversion scheme was planned for monsoon discharge. Detailed thermal studies were carried out for the concrete gravity dam, thermal insulation was provided over the external surface to avoid thermal cracking. A compact dam toe powerhouse was provided with embedded penstock to avoid freezing. Heating arrangement for spillway radial gates and intake quick acting gates were also provided. Project construction started in September’2006 and commissioned by october’2013.
