Shillong: Meghalaya Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal on Tuesday voiced concern over the declining water levels in the Umiam reservoir, warning that a prolonged dry spell could disrupt the state’s power generation.
Speaking to reporters, Mondal said that while the current water level remains within manageable limits, the situation could deteriorate if rains do not arrive soon.
“We are still managing, but I can’t predict how long we’ll hold out. If rain comes, the reservoir will stabilise. If not, we may have to revisit our power supply planning,” he said.
The minister, however, refrained from confirming whether load-shedding would be imposed, stating that it was still “too early” to make such an assessment.
Meghalaya has seen a significant shift in rainfall patterns this year.
Sohra, historically among the wettest places on the planet, recorded just about one-third of its average June rainfall, underscoring the growing unpredictability of the monsoon across the state.
Asked about the impact on other hydropower projects, including the Leshka plant, Mondal said generation remains directly dependent on water availability.
“If the monsoon is generous, we’ll have sufficient water and power. If not, output will take a hit,” he noted.
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He cited the recent performance of the Ganol hydropower plant as an example, saying the facility exceeded its usual 22.5 megawatt capacity and touched 24 MW following heavy rainfall in its catchment area.
“More water equals more generation,” he added.
On the financial front, Mondal said the state continues to buy power through the national exchange while steadily working to reduce its dues to central power agencies.
“We are targeting to clear the Rs 664 crore outstanding owed to NTPC by 2027,” he said, adding that payments to NTPC, NEEPCO, and Power Grid have already been partially settled.
