A distinguished delegation of eight officials from Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC), Bhutan, visited THDC India Limited’s (THDCIL) under-construction 444 MW Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project (VPHEP) in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, to gain insights into the project’s advanced engineering, environmental practices, and operational milestones.

DGPC, Bhutan’s leading hydropower generation utility, is committed to leveraging international expertise in hydropower development. The delegation aimed to observe VPHEP’s state-of-the-art construction techniques, including its record-setting Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) operations and innovative environmental management approaches.

During their visit from December 15–18, 2024, After the presentation given on the different aspects of the project by THDCIL’s executives, the officials toured key project sites, including the underground powerhouse, headrace tunnel, and the dam site near Helong village. The delegation expressed admiration for the progress achieved despite the region’s challenging Himalayan terrain, stating, "This visit has been a great learning opportunity for our team, offering practical insights into the planning, design, and execution of large-scale dam projects. We have heard commendable reports about VPHEP’s progress and achievements from various sources, including officials from the World Bank. By visiting the project site, we have witnessed firsthand the exemplary work being done here, which sets a benchmark for hydropower development."

The visit signifies VPHEP’s international recognition as a benchmark project in renewable energy development, fostering regional cooperation and knowledge exchange in hydropower.

The delegation included:

  1. Ms. Phub Zam, Executive Engineer (Civil), PCD

  2. Mr. Tempa Tshering, Executive Engineer (Civil), DGC

  3. Mr. Dendup Tharchen, Executive Engineer (Civil), DGC

  4. Mr. Pema Wangchuk, Executive Engineer (Civil), DGC

  5. Ms. Ganga Gajmer, Assistant Engineer (Civil), DGC

  6. Ms. Tshering Dema, Geologist, DGC

  7. Ms. Sonam Tshewang Dema, Assistant Engineer (Civil), DGC

  8. Ms. Dorji Dema, Assistant Engineer (Civil), DGC