The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled the first-ever geothermal production well in Northeast India. Located in Dirang, West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, this pioneering achievement marks a major step toward clean and sustainable energy in the Himalayan region.
Two Years of Survey Lead to Breakthrough
The milestone follows two years of detailed geochemical and structural surveys across hot spring zones in western Arunachal Pradesh. Led by Rupankar Rajkhowa, Head of CESHS’s Geosciences Division, the research identified Dirang as a promising site due to its medium-to-high enthalpy geothermal potential.
Clean Energy for the Highlands
Once operational, the geothermal energy will power several eco-friendly solutions:
*Drying units for fruits, nuts, and meat
*Space heating systems
*Controlled-atmosphere storage facilities
These technologies are expected to significantly improve agricultural productivity and living conditions in the region’s high-altitude terrain.
A Global Collaboration for Local Impact
The project is the result of an international collaboration involving:
- CESHS (India)
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Oslo
- Iceland-based geothermal firm Geotropy ehf
- Guwahati Boring Service (GBS), the drilling partner
- Advanced geochemical analysis confirmed the region’s geothermal reservoir temperature at approximately 115°C, ideal for direct-use geothermal applications.
- Precision Drilling with Minimal Environmental Footprint
Detailed geological mapping revealed key tectonic features—quartzite overlying schist at major fault zones near the Main Central Thrust—allowing precise drilling with minimal environmental disruption.
Support from State and Centre
The initiative has received strong backing from both the government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Ministry of Earth Sciences. CESHS Director Tana Tage hailed the project as a breakthrough for clean energy in the Himalayas, emphasizing its role in sustainable regional development.
Vision for India’s First Geothermal City
With the first production well complete, CESHS now plans to scale operations through deeper drilling in Dirang. The long-term vision: transform Dirang into India’s first geothermal-powered city for space heating and sustainable energy use.
A National Model for Clean Energy in Remote Regions
Geothermal-powered drying and storage units are expected to become operational soon, establishing a national model for energy self-reliance in remote, mountainous regions. As reported by knnindia.co.in, CESHS, operating under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, is leading the charge toward a greener, cleaner Himalayan future.
