Northeast Desk, 30th September: The District Level Monitoring Committee of Pakyong, led by Additional District Collector (ADC) Mr. Sangay Gyatso Bhutia, carried out its routine bimonthly inspection of the Madhya Bharat Power Corporation Limited (MBPCL) Hydropower Project in Rangpo. The inspection, held to assess the safety protocols of the facility, focused on protecting public welfare and ensuring the operational integrity of the plant.
The review aimed to identify potential safety risks at the hydropower site and evaluate the effectiveness of current safety mechanisms. The inspection team, comprising key officials from various departments, also offered recommendations for enhancing public safety measures and improving plant safety protocols.
Accompanying ADC Bhutia on the inspection were several district officials, including Mr. D.B. Subba, Superintendent Engineer of the Water Resources Department; Mr. Thendup Lepcha, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Rangpo; Ms. Panu Hangma Khewa, Divisional Engineer of the Power Department; Ms. Prakriti Pradhan, Senior Geologist from the Mines and Geology Department; Mr. T.K. Chettri, District Planning Officer (DPO) of Pakyong; Mr. Nilkantha Bhandari, Block Development Officer (BDO) Duga; and Mr. Navin Gurung, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF). Representatives from other line departments and officials from MBPCL were also present.
During the visit, the committee conducted a thorough examination of key areas, including the powerhouse and the switchyard, assessing the safety protocols in place. MBPCL officials provided detailed briefings on technical aspects of the plant’s operation, ensuring the committee fully understood the infrastructure and current safety standards.
ADC Bhutia emphasized the need for continued public safety awareness and suggested collaboration with local authorities to inform residents of potential risks. He also recommended installing clearer safety signage, ensuring the availability of sirens, and improving access to medical services for emergencies.
The committee took note of the progress made on corrective measures suggested during previous inspections, ensuring any earlier concerns were adequately addressed. This bimonthly inspection reflects the committee’s ongoing commitment to maintaining stringent safety standards at the hydropower facility and safeguarding the community around it.