Nepal’s Taplejung district is fast becoming a center for hydropower development, with multiple projects poised to enhance the district’s contribution to the country’s national power grid. Sanima Middle Tamor Hydropower Project, boasting a capacity of 73 MW, was recently integrated into the national transmission line, signaling a growing trend in the area.

In addition, three hydropower projects, currently under construction along the Kabeli River and collectively generating 48 MW, are set to be connected to the national grid by October. Another project in the Kabeli basin with a capacity of 47.43 MW is also on track for connection in the same timeframe.

Meghnath Dhungana, the public relations officer of the project, said that the civil construction work for the projects is nearly complete. Barring any unforeseen disruptions, all three are expected to start commercial production by October. The projects in question are the 13.5 MW Super Kabeli Khola 'A', the 12 MW Super Kabeli Khola Cascade, and the 21.93 MW Kabeli-3.

These projects are being developed by different entities: Snow Rivers Limited is handling the Super Kabeli Khola Project, Hilton Hydro Energy is in charge of the Super Kabeli Khola Cascade, and Kabeli Hydropower Company is overseeing the Kabeli-3 Project.

The region has faced challenges, such as floods and landslides, which previously damaged infrastructure and delayed progress. Notably, last year's severe flooding adversely affected several areas, including Yamfudin, Khewang, Pedang, Tellok, Mamangkhe.

The projects are located 54 km from the nearest main road, with 25 km of access roads built by the promoter companies. The electricity from these plants will eventually be linked to the Panchthar Amarpur substation via a 31 km transmission line, which is also nearing completion. Currently, the construction of 96 towers for the 132 KV transmission line continues, alongside the ongoing task of wire pulling.

By: Khagendra Adhikari