₹1038.31 Cr to Upgrade Gandhi Sagar & Rana Pratap Sagar Power Plants

On July 22, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet approved several major decisions, including a significant allocation of ₹464 crore for the renovation of the Gandhi Sagar Hydroelectric Power Plant located on the Chambal River in Mandsaur and Neemuch districts. This renovation will be carried out jointly with the state of Rajasthan, which will also upgrade the Rana Pratap Sagar Hydroelectric Plant.

Total Project Cost and Funding

The combined cost for both Gandhi Sagar and Rana Pratap Sagar modernization projects is estimated at ₹1037 crore, with Madhya Pradesh contributing 30%, i.e., ₹464 crore. The remaining funding will come from the Rajasthan Government and the Central Government, with additional support from the World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) under the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP).

About Gandhi Sagar Dam

The Gandhi Sagar Dam is one of India’s largest reservoirs, located on the Chambal River. It was inaugurated in 1960, with its foundation stone laid by then Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on March 7, 1954. Standing 204 feet high and 514 feet wide, it is India’s third-largest reservoir after Indira Sagar and Hirakud.

Apart from its importance in irrigation and electricity generation, the dam is also a certified sanctuary for thousands of migratory birds by the International Bird Life Agency.

Project Objectives

The renovation aims to enhance dam safety, operational efficiency, and power generation capacity. It is part of India’s broader infrastructure modernization efforts focused on clean energy and sustainable dam management.