Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project

Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project Latest News

In April 2025, opposition to the Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project in the Nilgiris intensified, with local farmers, tribal groups, and environmentalists staging protests and submitting petitions to the Tamil Nadu government.

About Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project

• The Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (SPSHEP) is a major infrastructure initiative proposed by the Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) to address the state’s peak power demand and support renewable energy integration.
• Location: Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu, within the Kundah region, adjacent to the Silent Valley and Mukurthi National Parks.
• Aim: To generate 1,000 MW electricity to meet peak power demand.
• Project Features:
  • Construction of two dams (upper and lower reservoirs).
  • Tunnels of 2.8 km (head race) and 1.56 km (tail race).
  • Underground powerhouse and surface storage points.
• Environmental Concerns: The potential submergence of around 1,000 acres of farmland and 500 acres of forest land would affect approximately 3,000 farmers. 
• Issue of Joint Pattas: Many affected lands are under joint patta, and farmers will not be able to get the compensation accordingly. Moreover, people who have given their land for road projects are yet to receive compensation in the district.
• Public Response: Local communities have raised concerns over environmental impacts and loss of livelihoods.

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Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project FAQs

Q1. What is the main purpose of the Sillahalla project?

Ans: To provide 1,000 MW of flexible, peak-hour power supply and support renewable energy integration in Tamil Nadu.

Q2. Why is there strong opposition to the project?

Ans: Due to concerns over large-scale submergence of forests and farmland, displacement of thousands, and threats to the Nilgiris’ fragile ecology and cultural heritage.

Q3. Which is the largest pumped hydro storage in India?

Ans: The Greenko Group is constructing India’s largest pumped storage project in Madhya Pradesh, with a capacity of 1,440 MW, expandable to 1,920 MW.

Source: TH