The Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHPA-II) in Wangdue, Bhutan, has reached a pivotal phase with the successful filling of its reservoir on 21 February 2024, coinciding with His Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s birthday. The reservoir, with a capacity of 7 million cubic meters of water, will support a 1,020 MW facility expected to produce 4,357 million units of electricity each year.  

Mr. Rajesh Kumar Chandel, managing director of PHPA-II, addressed attendees at the event, honoring the dedication of those involved throughout its challenging decade-long construction. Dignitaries including Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Mr. Gyem Tshering, Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, Mr. Tandin Wangchuk, Minister of Health, and  Members of Parliament, and Mr. Sudhakar Dalela, Ambassador of India to Bhutan attended the event. 

The PHPA-II is an emblem of collaboration between Bhutan and India in hydropower. The project has achieved 96.83% completion, despite facing numerous setbacks, including the  COVID-19 pandemic. All six of the project’s generating units are slated for commissioning by the end of 2024. This achievement is a leap towards Bhutan's energy independence and underscores the project's contribution to sustainable growth. 

Related link 

A Watershed Moment: Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project Nears Completion in Bhutan 

Reservoir filling ceremony marks milestone in PHPA-II project