Kathmandu— Nepal’s Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation is prioritizing the development of strategic power infrastructure in Madhes Province, responding to increasing electricity demand from industries, businesses, and residents. Several key transmission line and substation projects are underway across the province, aiming to improve supply reliability and accommodate future growth. Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha stated that construction has reached an important stage, with monitoring and coordination efforts focused on timely project completion. These initiatives represent a significant investment in Nepal’s energy sector and its capacity to support economic development.

Dhalkebar–Balganga Line Energized

The approximately 24-kilometer double-circuit 132 kV Dhalkebar–Balganga Transmission Line and Substation Project has been successfully energized under no-load conditions, according to the Ministry of Energy. Construction and equipment installation at the Balganga Substation are progressing rapidly, with coordination underway to ensure operation before the upcoming Dashain festival. Once operational, the project will strengthen electricity distribution in several areas of Dhanusha district, including Mujeliya, Yadukuha, and Nagarain.

Addressing Distribution Challenges

One major challenge facing Madhes Province is increasing load on existing 33 kV and 11 kV distribution lines, particularly in rural and industrial areas of Siraha and Saptari. To address this, the Lahan–Sukhipur 132 kV Transmission Line Project is being developed, involving a 17-kilometer double-circuit transmission line connecting Lahan Substation to a new substation at Sukhipur. The Sukhipur Substation will house two 63 MVA transformers and one 24 MVA transformer, along with additions to the Lahan Substation.

Expanding Infrastructure Across Multiple Districts

Beyond Dhalkebar–Balganga and Lahan–Sukhipur, several other projects are underway. The Rupani–Bodebarsain 132 kV Transmission Line Project in Saptari aims to improve electricity supply and integrate new power generation. In Rautahat, the Chandrapur–Sukhdev Chowk 132 kV Transmission Line Project will increase transmission capacity to central and southern parts of the district. Finally, the Hetauda–Parwanipur–Pokhariya 132 kV transmission line project is being developed to serve the rapidly growing Bara–Parsa industrial corridor.

Project Timelines and Costs

The Dhalkebar–Balganga project carries an estimated cost of around Rs. 2.136 billion, while the Lahan–Sukhipur project is budgeted at approximately Rs. 1.53 billion. The Rupani–Bodebarsain line in Saptari is expected to cost around Rs. 1.56 billion. The Chandrapur–Sukhdev Chowk transmission line has a contract value of approximately Rs. 938.24 million with a construction period of 30 months. The Hetauda-Parwanipur-Pokhariya project is targeted for completion by September 2027.

Land acquisition and forest clearance are ongoing for some projects, but significant progress has been made on feasibility studies and initial construction phases across all initiatives. These investments signal a commitment to strengthening Nepal’s power infrastructure and supporting sustainable economic growth in Madhes Province.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.