NEA ensures electricity for fast track construction

The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is arranging alternative power supplies to ensure uninterrupted construction of the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Fast Track in Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-8 and Indra Sarovar Rural Municipality-3, Makawanpur.

To facilitate ongoing construction of bridges, tunnels, and other structures, the NEA will require approximately 12 MW of electricity in these areas. The plan involves operating the previously used 66 kV line from the Kulekhani First Hydropower Station at 11 kV, relocating a 22.5 MVA power transformer from Jageda to the Dhorsing Substation, and supplementing the supply with a higher-capacity transformer.

Floods and landslides on Sept 19-20 severely damaged the 22 MW Bagmati Khola Small Hydropower Plant and the 2 MW Khanikhola project, cutting power to the Malta Substation and halting electricity supply to the fast track. Reconstruction of these projects is underway, with completion expected by next Chaitra.

A high-level NEA team, led by Managing Director Kulman Ghising, inspected the affected areas and explored immediate power solutions. Ghising emphasized the importance of ensuring power supply through alternative measures to avoid delays in this national pride project.

Deputy Managing Director Manoj Silwal instructed local distribution heads to expedite restoration efforts. Once the damaged hydropower projects resume operations, the previous power supply arrangements will be reinstated.