Vyasi Hydroelectric Project (120 MW)

Challenge

The Vyasi Hydroelectric Project harnesses the significant hydropower potential of the Yamuna River basin in Uttarakhand, India. Developed by UJVN Limited near Dehradun, the 120 MW run-of-river scheme comprises a 92.6 m-high concrete gravity dam, a 7 m-diameter and 2.7 km-long Head Race Tunnel, a powerhouse equipped with two 60 MW Francis turbines, and a tailrace channel. One of the project’s main challenges was the complex Himalayan geology, characterised by thrust and shear zones and highly variable rock conditions. These demanding conditions required advanced geotechnical expertise and carefully coordinated structural and underground engineering throughout the project lifecycle.

Solution

Tractebel provided multidisciplinary engineering support throughout the development and implementation of the project. Its scope covered basic and detailed engineering, tendering support and construction supervision, bringing together expertise in hydropower, dam structures, tunnelling and geotechnical engineering. Particular attention was given to adapting the engineering solutions to the challenging geological conditions encountered at the site, supporting the safe and effective construction of the dam, waterways and powerhouse infrastructure.

Impact

The Vyasi Hydroelectric Project adds 120 MW of clean, run-of-river hydropower to Uttarakhand’s electricity system, strengthening regional power infrastructure and supporting electricity supply for industrial and domestic consumers across Uttarakhand and the Northern Grid. The project also demonstrates how specialised engineering can address the demanding geological conditions of the Himalayas, enabling major hydropower infrastructure to be successfully developed through tailored tunnel and dam engineering solutions.