Kathmandu: The construction of the Hetauda–Dhalkebar 400 kV transmission line, which has remained stalled for the past 12 years, has reached its final stage. The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is preparing to complete the construction of the remaining two multi-circuit towers and charge the transmission line immediately after Dashain.
Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha inspected the Hetauda–Dhalkebar 400 kV substation and received an update on the progress of the two multi-circuit towers under construction. During the inspection, he directed officials to complete the remaining works on time, emphasizing that the transmission line is the backbone of the country’s energy system.
According to NEA Managing Director Dirghayu Kumar Shrestha, 14 of the 16 towers required for the transmission line have already been completed. He said construction of the remaining two multi-circuit towers is also in its final stage.
“Fourteen towers have already been completed. Progress on the remaining two towers is also good. We will complete them within 10–15 days and charge the line,” he said.
According to him, the transmission line is considered the “backbone” of the national electricity system. Once the line comes into operation, the NEA expects it to improve the reliability of electricity supply while supporting increased domestic consumption and electricity exports.
Minister Shrestha said Nepal’s electricity system would become more balanced and reliable once the Hetauda–Dhalkebar transmission line is completed. He said the transmission line would further strengthen, improve the reliability of, and make the east–west electricity flow more sustainable.
The Ministry said the transmission line would not only strengthen the country’s electricity supply system but also help manage growing industrial electricity demand. It is also expected to provide the infrastructure needed to prevent surplus electricity generated during the monsoon from going to waste and to expand cross-border electricity trade with neighboring countries, including India.
Construction of the Hetauda–Dhalkebar 400 kV transmission line had been unable to move forward for a long time due to various reasons. The NEA said construction gained momentum after the process was advanced through a Cabinet decision initiated by Minister Shrestha.
Kantipur
