At 3:45 p.m. on November 1 (Nepal local time), the Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Project in Manang, Nepal, jointly developed by Sichuan Energy Investment Group, Butwal Power Company Limited (BPC), Chengdu Xingcheng Investment Group Co., Ltd., and Sichuan Qingyuan Engineering Consulting Co., Ltd., successfully achieved river diversion, marking the full transition of the project into its main construction phase.

The diversion ceremony was attended by Liao Bin, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of Sichuan Investment International, Uttar Kumar Shrestha, CEO of Butwal Power Company, Yang Hongkun, General Manager of Sichuan Qingyuan Engineering Consulting Co., Ltd., and Wang Jianfeng, Deputy General Manager of China Water Resources and Hydropower Seventh Engineering Bureau Co., Ltd.

During the river diversion preparation stage, the project team faced challenges from tropical cyclone “Monta”, which brought heavy rainfall, sharp rises in river levels, and difficult working conditions. Under the leadership of Sichuan Investment International, the team activated an emergency plan, coordinated efficiently, optimized construction plans, and completed the milestone despite fast currents and a complex riverbed. This success reflected Chinese technology, speed, and responsibility, and further strengthened China–Nepal energy cooperation.

The Marsyangdi Cascade Hydropower Project is a Belt and Road Initiative landmark and a key China–Nepal power cooperation project. It is located in Nepal’s Gandaki Province and includes three cascade plants:

- Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Project (135 MW)

- Lower Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Project(135 MW)

- Upper Marsyangdi-2 Hydropower Project (about 327 MW)

The total installed capacity is about 600 MW. The project uses a run-of-river design with a total investment of USD 1.2 billion and follows a BOOT (Build-Own-Operate-Transfer) model with a 35-year concession.

The Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Station is the first phase of the Marsyangdi Cascade Project. It is a medium-scale run-of-river plant (Class III) with an installed capacity of 135 MW, total investment of USD 322 million, and a planned construction period of 42 months. Once in operation, it is expected to generate 712 GWh annually. The project includes the headworks, water conveyance system, and powerhouse complex.

Liao Bin commended the project team for overcoming difficult terrain, frequent natural hazards, and the cyclone’s impact. He urged all parties to maintain focus on safety and quality and complete the project efficiently. The goal is to make the Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Station a symbol of China–Nepal cooperation, a model of green energy, and a benefit to local communities, contributing to Nepal’s clean energy goals.

Uttar Kumar Shrestha said the diversion marks a key milestone and emphasized continued coordination with local communities, the government, and partners. Yang Hongkun stated they will continue following a professional and cooperative approach to ensure safe and efficient construction.

Leaders and representatives from Sichuan Investment International, Sichuan Investment International Nepal Company, Butwal Power Company, Sichuan Qingyuan Engineering Consulting Co., Ltd., China Water Resources and Hydropower Northwest Engineering Consulting Co., Ltd., and China Water Resources and Hydropower Seventh Engineering Bureau Co., Ltd. attended the ceremony.

Source: SCIG