Arunachal drills Northeast India's first geothermal production well in Dirang

Northeast India's first geothermal production well has been successfully drilled in Dirang, marking a significant advancement in sustainable energy development for the region.

The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), operating under the Department of Science & Technology of Arunachal Pradesh, completed the drilling operation following two years of comprehensive geochemical and structural surveys of hot springs throughout western Arunachal Pradesh.

This achievement positions Dirang to potentially become India's first geothermal-powered city for space heating. The project will initially supply energy for practical applications critical to the high-altitude region, including fruit, nut, and meat drying facilities, space heating systems, and controlled-atmosphere storage technologies that could substantially improve agricultural productivity and living conditions.

"This pioneering development paves the way for a new era of clean energy in the Himalayas," said the CESHS Director. "It demonstrates the potential of geothermal resources in transforming regional livelihoods while ensuring environmental sustainability."

The breakthrough results from international collaboration between CESHS and European partners, including the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute and Icelandic geothermal firm Geotropy ehf, with drilling executed by Guwahati Boring Service.

Advanced geochemical analysis identified Dirang as a medium-to-high-enthalpy geothermal zone with reservoir temperatures estimated at 115°C, making it ideal for direct-use applications. Geologists mapped quartzite overlying schist at tectonic contacts near the Main Central Thrust, enabling precise drilling with minimal environmental impact.

The project, backed by the Arunachal Pradesh government and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, plans to scale operations with deeper drilling. The geothermal-powered facilities are expected to become operational soon, establishing a model for sustainable energy development in mountainous and remote regions across India.

The successful well completion represents the first concrete step toward harnessing the region's substantial geothermal potential, which has remained largely untapped until now.