Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted a detailed inspection of the proposed site for a major thermal power project in Bilasipara on May 15, 2025. The site spans Charuwabakhra, Santoshpur, and Chirakuta areas, where a substantial investment of Rs 20,000 crore is planned to establish a state-of-the-art thermal power plant. Arriving by helicopter and landing at Shalkocha Higher Secondary School playground, the Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister Prashanta Phukan and senior officials under stringent security arrangements. This visit underlines the government’s commitment to enhancing Assam’s energy infrastructure and boosting the region’s economic growth.
During the inspection, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the importance of the project not just for Assam’s power needs but also for generating employment opportunities and uplifting local communities. He assured residents of the areas involved that the project would proceed with utmost transparency, ensuring minimal disruption and fostering peaceful implementation. The government’s approach is focused on addressing environmental concerns while facilitating sustainable development through advanced technology and responsible resource management.
The proposed thermal power project, estimated at Rs 20,000 crore, is expected to be one of the largest investments in Assam’s energy sector. It aims to produce significant megawatts of electricity, helping to meet the rising demand in both urban and rural parts of the state. The plant is also projected to strengthen Assam’s position as a key energy hub in the Northeast region. By harnessing local resources efficiently, the project will contribute to the overall energy security and economic stability of Assam and its neighboring states.
Officials accompanying the Chief Minister provided detailed briefings on the land acquisition status, environmental impact assessments, and the planned infrastructure layout. The government has already initiated dialogues with local stakeholders to ensure their cooperation and to address any concerns related to land use and compensation. Community engagement remains a priority to ensure that the project benefits all sections of society and aligns with Assam’s inclusive growth agenda.
The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to following all environmental norms and adopting clean coal technologies to minimize pollution. Sustainable development is a key focus area, and the project will incorporate modern pollution control mechanisms to protect the local ecology and public health. Assam’s leadership is keen to balance industrial progress with environmental stewardship, setting a model for future projects in the region.
Local residents and community leaders welcomed the Chief Minister’s visit and expressed hope that the project would bring long-term benefits, including improved infrastructure, better electricity access, and economic development. The government’s proactive approach in involving the community early in the process has been appreciated. Many see this project as a transformative opportunity to revitalize the local economy, attract ancillary industries, and enhance overall quality of life in Bilasipara and surrounding areas.
The Bilasipara thermal power project is part of Assam’s broader vision to expand its energy portfolio and reduce dependency on external sources. The state government has been actively promoting investments in renewable and non-renewable energy sectors to create a balanced and sustainable energy mix. This project complements ongoing efforts to modernize Assam’s power grid, improve transmission efficiency, and ensure reliable power supply for residential, industrial, and agricultural users.
Chief Minister Sarma’s inspection visit reinforces the government’s message that large-scale infrastructure projects will be pursued with careful planning and community cooperation. Peaceful implementation is a priority, and the administration is prepared to address any challenges promptly and transparently. Security arrangements during the visit reflected the seriousness with which the government views the project’s importance and the need to maintain public order.
This ambitious Rs 20,000 crore thermal power project marks a significant milestone in Assam’s development trajectory. It is expected to catalyze economic activities, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and contribute substantially to the state’s GDP. The government’s focus remains on inclusive growth, where infrastructure development goes hand-in-hand with social welfare and environmental care.
As Assam progresses towards becoming a key energy player in Northeast India, projects like the one in Bilasipara are crucial. They symbolize the state’s readiness to embrace industrial advancement while safeguarding the interests of its people and natural heritage. The government’s commitment to transparent, peaceful, and sustainable development will be critical to the successful realization of this landmark power project.
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