Geographic Reach

Project overview

The Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project (WHPL) is strategically positioned in southwestern Bhutan, representing a massive infrastructure footprint that bridges the Chhukha and Dagana districts. The project’s geographic reach primarily encompasses the Darla and Bongo gewogs in Chhukha and the Lhamoi Dzingkha gewog in Dagana, specifically situated downstream of the existing Tala Hydropower Plant. Central to this development is a 134-meter-high concrete gravity dam located in Gamanang village (Darla Gewog), which diverts water through a 12.38 km long headrace tunnel to an underground powerhouse. Spanning over 800 acres of managed land—including roughly 60 acres of private property and 750 acres of government land—the project integrates seamlessly into the rugged river valley, utilizing the natural descent of the Wangchhu basin to drive four high-capacity turbines.

Project Area: 2,613,600 sq.ft.

Ownership and Costs:
Nu 60 Billion

Glacial Monitoring:
58 Glaciers

Capacity:
570 MW.

Commencement Date:
January 20, 2026

Economic Empowerment & Local Livelihoods

The Wangchhu Hydroelectric Project (WHPL) is designed not just as a power plant, but as a cornerstone for regional development. By focusing on the “Triple Bottom Line” of social, economic, and environmental progress, the project offers a wide array of advantages to the residents of Chhukha and Dagana.

Direct Local Employmen: WHPL prioritizes the recruitment of local residents from the Darla, Bongo, and Lhamoi Dzingkha gewogs for both skilled and unskilled roles, significantly reducing the trend of rural-urban migration among youth.

Direct-to-Site Vegetable Market: A dedicated vegetable market will be established at the project site, allowing local farmers to bypass middlemen and sell fresh produce directly to the workforce, providing a steady and increased income stream.

Secondary Business Growth: The influx of workers and infrastructure attracts new small businesses, including retail, catering, and transportation services, stimulating the local economy beyond the energy sector.