Kathmandu:The government is actively seeking alternative solutions after the Bhotekoshi flood disrupted 430 MW of electricity, which was cut off from the national transmission system due to damage at various hydropower projects.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation has initiated preliminary steps for alternative management following the disruption in power supply from the Trishuli corridor to Balaju and Chapali in Kathmandu. This disruption has put pressure on the transmission lines in these areas.
Ministry Spokesperson Mohan Kumar Shakya stated that efforts are underway to develop an alternative supply system. The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is involved in these efforts through the formation of a taskforce. The Ministry recently held discussions with the Department of Roads and Kathmandu Metropolitan City regarding the construction of additional underground grids.
Shakya added that the NEA has been progressing with plans to construct these underground grids as part of their winter preparation strategy. Coordination with the Department of Roads and Kathmandu Metropolis is a key component of this initiative.
Subodh Devkota, Kathmandu Division Chief of the Department of Roads, pledged necessary support and cooperation for constructing the underground grids. Meanwhile, Suresh Kumar Rai, Chief of the Department of Public Works at KMC, confirmed plans for collaboration through the installation of underground cables along footpaths.
Munindra Thakur, Chief of the Bagmati Distribution and Customer Service Directorate, presented details on load management in Kathmandu and emphasized ongoing efforts by the NEA to address winter power demand through the taskforce. Anshu Kiran Shahi, a board member of NEA, highlighted the importance of cooperation among all entities to effectively manage the winter power needs in Kathmandu.