KATHMANDU: The hydropower and energy sector in Nepal has suffered its largest historical loss following flash floods and debris flow in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa.
According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the floods caused physical damage estimated at Rs 151.04 billion to the sector.
Preliminary projections indicate that reconstruction and recovery efforts will require approximately Rs 390.62 billion.
The authority reported that 13 small and large-scale hydropower projects have sustained severe damage. Floods filled dams, powerhouses, and tunnels with debris and boulders, causing extensive destruction to critical infrastructure.
Major projects affected include Upper Trishuli-1, Rasuwagadhi, Trishuli 3 ‘A’, Trishuli 3 ‘B’, Chilime, Langtang, and Rasuwa Bhote Koshi. Search and rescue operations for missing or trapped personnel are ongoing, involving the Nepal Army and international rescue teams.
Efforts to restore electricity supply are currently underway. Approximately 80 percent of households in Rasuwa district have had their power restored.
In areas such as Gosaikunda and Aamachhodingmo rural municipalities, where full restoration is expected to take longer, solar panels have been installed at health posts and community centers as a temporary measure. In Dhading, cleaning and maintenance work at the Jahare charging station is expected to resolve ongoing voltage issues.
Furthermore, a technical team has been formed to oversee the rehabilitation of the Devighat station, while pole installation work continues in the flood-affected Betrawati region to restore grid connectivity.
