The eastern hilly district of Sankhuwasabha is becoming self-reliant in electricity.

According to Nepal Electricity Authority Khandbari Distribution Centre, operation of micro-hydro and hydropower projects in various rivers and rivulets has accelerated electrification in the district. “The district produces surplus power during monsoon,” said NEA distribution centre’s assistant accountant Kumar Ghimire.

Sankhuwasabha generates 11.85 megawatt electricity at present. Sabhakhola generates 4.4 megawatt, Hewakhola 3.2 megawatt, Piluwa-1 produces 3 megawatt while Lobar Ppiluwa generates 1 megawatt power.

NEA electricity distribution Sankhuwasabha Chief Dhruba Adhikari said more than 10 micro hydro projects are supplying power to locals of the district. Survey work of Upper Arun, Arun IV and Arun II is undervway, while India’s Sutlej Company is working on the much-hyped 900 megawatt Arun III project in the district.

Out of ten local levels in Sankhuwasabha, central transmission line has reached seven local levels. Local levels not connected with the central transmission line are being supplied power by the local hydro powers. The district consumes four megawatts power in the evening and two megawatts during daytime.