Sudden flooding in the Budhi Gandaki River has damaged four hydropower projects in the area of Gorkha district. Preliminary reports indicate that the flood damaged project camps, access roads, bridges, construction equipment and materials.
According to the information received, structures belonging to the 341 MW Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project, as well as the Dobhan Khola, Yaru Khola and Machha Khola hydropower projects, have been affected.
How Much Damage Has Each Project Sustained?
1. Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project (341 MW)
The main camp area of the project, promoted by Times Energy Pvt. Ltd., has been swept away by the flood. Preliminary reports also indicate that some construction equipment was washed away.
2. Dobhan Khola Hydropower Project (24.5 MW)
Some houses in the camp area of the project, promoted by Dobhan Khola Hydropower Limited, have been damaged. The flood also swept away a Bailey bridge belonging to the project.
3. Yaru Khola Hydropower Project (30.59 MW)
The Bailey bridge of the project, promoted by Yaru Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd., has been damaged. Reports also indicate that various construction materials and equipment were washed away by the flood.
4. Machha Khola Hydropower Project (16 MW)
The access road and the bridge leading to the project site, promoted by Water Energy Development Pvt. Ltd., have been damaged. This is likely to affect access to the project site and disrupt construction activities.
A detailed assessment of the damage caused by the Budhi Gandaki River flood to hydropower project infrastructure and construction materials is yet to be completed. Preliminary reports indicate that the camps, bridges, roads and construction equipment of all four projects have been affected.
The full extent of the damage, its impact on construction activities, and the costs of restoration and additional losses will become clearer once a comprehensive assessment is completed.
Nepalpurbadhar
