Budhigandaki hydro project to be forwarded as a multi-purpose undertaking

Kathmandu, June 5: The government has clarified that it was for developing the Budhigandaki hydropower project in a multi-purpose model. The undertaking would be forwarded in an authority model in the upcoming year.  

Minister for Energy Biraj Bhakta Shrestha said that the project would not only focus on hydropower production but also include irrigation, drinking water, fisheries and ecotourism, which he argued, would amplify returns on state investment. 

With such plan, the government is advancing all side works in parallel for the project with a total capacity of 1,200 MW. Process for contracts is initiated for infrastructure developments, including access road and housing to project site. As the project design is already prepared, the project would be made a high-powered authority, according to Minister Shrestha. 

"Government is attaching importance to this project due to its proximity to major power consumption areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara cities. Coordination is going on with various ministries to wipe out hindrances and delays," the Minister explained. 

Even a ring road has been planned around reservoir and tourism infrastructures enhanced accordingly. The project is expected to be completed by 2091BS, as outlined in the 'Energy Consumption Growth and Export Strategy, 2083.' 

A 263-metre high dam will be constructed near Benighat of Dhading. As many as 8,117 households would be benefitted with the project. 

A French company had prepared a detailed project report in 2014.

Land acquisition for the project is nearly complete, with 96 percent finalized, demonstrating the government's commitment to the project. The project is estimated to produce 3.38 billion units of electricity annually, which is further expected to generate annual income of Rs 31.48 billion from electricity sales.

The project has been listed as a national pride project. (RSS)