Arunachal Pradesh is looking to reposition India’s largest hydropower project as a multi-sector economic driver, with plans to transform the reservoir of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project into a world-class mountain and river tourism destination.
The project, slated for full commissioning by December 2026, is being reimagined beyond its role as an energy asset and positioned as a high-value tourism ecosystem within a biodiverse river landscape.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu has sought strategic support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key central ministries, advocating a whole-of-government approach that integrates infrastructure, tourism, environment and community development under a unified framework.
The proposed model includes ecotourism, water-based adventure, cultural and tribal experiences, inland fisheries and premium river cruise offerings, drawing inspiration from global destinations such as Phewa Lake in Nepal, Lake Como in Italy and Milford Sound in New Zealand.
A strong emphasis has been placed on community participation, with local and tribal populations positioned as key stakeholders in both ownership and execution. The initiative is expected to generate over 2,500 jobs and attract nearly 150,000 tourists annually in the medium term.
In the first phase, the state will appoint expert agencies to prepare a detailed project report (DPR), which will define design, financial structuring, environmental safeguards and the execution roadmap.
The move reflects a broader shift in India’s development strategy, where large infrastructure projects are increasingly being aligned with tourism growth and local livelihood generation to create long-term economic value.
