Kathmandu. All political parties in Lamjung district have reached an agreement on the construction of the 50-megawatt Marsyangdi Besi Hydropower Project. Earlier, there had been opposition citing possible negative impacts on the beauty and environment of Besishahar. However, the obstruction was removed after the company committed to improving the project’s design and location.
The project, to be constructed by Divya Jyoti Hydropower Limited, is a run-of-river hydropower project. According to the revised design, penstock pipes will be used instead of a tunnel. The dam will be constructed in Marsyangdi Rural Municipality–9, while the powerhouse will be located in Besishahar–10.
The company has stated that the project will be implemented in a way that does not negatively affect the environment, culture, or archaeological heritage. It has also committed to prioritizing local employment and development, providing financial benefits to local governments through annual royalties, and issuing shares for local residents.
The responsibility for the supply and installation of electro-mechanical equipment has been awarded to Troyer AG, Italy. The project is estimated to cost approximately NPR 10 billion (NPR 1,000 crore), of which 30 percent will be equity investment from the promoter group and 70 percent will be financed through bank loans. The project aims to begin commercial operation within two and a half years.
The electricity generated by the project will be connected to the Udipur Substation of the Nepal Electricity Authority, which is expected to make a significant contribution to the national transmission system.
In this project, Api Power Company Limited will hold more than 51 percent investment. Previously, Api Power Company Limited had decided to acquire all shares of Divya Jyoti Hydropower Limited. After financial and technical evaluations found the project suitable, ownership and management of the company will now remain under the majority ownership of Api Power Company Limited.
Urjasanchar
