Overview:
Commissioned in 1966, the Girinagar HEP is a 60 MW run-of-the-river project developed by the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB). It harnesses the flow of the Giri River, a tributary of the Yamuna, and was the first major hydropower project built entirely by the Himachal government. With two units of 30 MW each, it laid the foundation for the state’s long-term energy self-reliance.
📍 Location & Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | Near Girinagar village, Sirmaur district |
| River | Giri (tributary of Yamuna) |
| Installed Capacity | 60 MW (2 × 30 MW Francis turbines) |
| Commissioned | 1966 |
| Operator | HPSEB |
| Project Type | Run-of-the-river |
| Status | Operational; modernized in recent years |
🏗️ Engineering Highlights
- Diversion Weir:
A small concrete structure diverts water into the intake channel with minimal ecological disruption. - Headrace Tunnel & Penstocks:
Water is channeled through a short tunnel and steel penstocks to the surface powerhouse. - Powerhouse:
Houses two vertical-axis Francis turbines, each rated at 30 MW. - Modernization:
Recently upgraded with new turbines and control systems, funded by Power Finance Corporation.
🌄 Environmental & Strategic Context
- Minimal Impact Design:
As a run-of-the-river scheme, it avoids large-scale submergence or displacement. - Legacy Value:
Girinagar marked the beginning of Himachal’s journey toward becoming a hydropower-rich state, now contributing over 10,000 MW to the national grid. - Local Benefits:
The project has supported rural electrification and industrial growth in southern Himachal, especially around Paonta Sahib and Nahan.
🧭 Accessibility
- Nearest Towns:
- Paonta Sahib (~25 km)
- Nahan (~40 km)
- By Road:
Well-connected via NH-707 and local roads from Paonta Sahib and Shimla. - By Train:
Nearest broad-gauge station: Dehradun (~80 km) - By Air:
- Chandigarh Airport (~120 km)
- Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (~100 km)
