Gelnal Hydro Electric Project yet to be officially inaugurated after 20 years
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Kangpokpi, October 05 2015: The Gelnal Hydro Electric Project along Imphal-Tamenglong road in Twilang area, Sadar Hills began functioning few days back after it was revived 20 years later.

The Hydro Electric Project which was set up in 1981-1982 supplied power to the Twilang populace from 1992 .

However, the proposal of the former Manipur Chief Minister Rishang Keishing to inaugurate the 400 KV Gelnal Hydro Electric Project in October 1993 had been almost forgotten now.

The probable reason cited then was the existing turmoil in the area due to the Naga-Kuki tension.

Gelnal Hydro Electric Project yet to be officially inaugurated after 20 years

It has also been alleged that on September 13, 1993 Gelnal village came under attack by NSCN (IM) when 17 people were killed and 12 sustained severe injuries.

More than 76 houses were gutted in the attack.

Since then, the project and its functioning had been completely ignored by the Government.

However, after much effort, MANIREDA had initiated measures to revive the Hydro Electric Project in Gelnal for the welfare of the people.

With the enthusiastic support given by MANIREDA and the responsible department coupled with the cooperation of the people, the project was revived after more than 20 years by generating satisfactory power in the area on September 28, 2015 .

Delighted with the revival and functioning of the Hydro Electric Project, the Chief of Gelnal village Thangsat Khongsai organized a Thanksgiving cum Blessing function on October 4, 2015 at the power house.

The function was attended by Benjamin Lalneisang Saiate, DGM Kangpokpi Division, Gelnal VA members, church leaders and other social leaders of the area.

"The people of Twilang once again experience the exuberance of existing under the luster of power after more than 20 years", an elated Chief of Gelnal village said while adding "it looks as if we are living in wonderland when we started enjoying the power generated through the project" .

With the development and revival of the Hydro Electric Project, the people of Twilang area would like to enthusiastically participate in the developmental work of the Government, the Chief said.

He also urged the State Government and the responsible department to officially inaugurate the project which was already been revived.

The Chief also appeal the general public to render utmost cooperation and support towards the Government and the department.