Kathmandu— A devastating flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River on August 26 has caused significant damage to Nepal's hydropower sector. At least 13 hydropower projects and associated transmission infrastructure have been affected, representing hundreds of megawatts of generation capacity. The disaster has disrupted power generation and transmission networks, raising concerns over prolonged disruptions and the safety of workers.

Extent of Damage

The flood has damaged several major hydropower projects including the 216 MW Upper Trishuli-1, 111 MW Rasuwagadhi, and 120 MW Rasuwa Bhotekoshi. In Nuwakot, four operational projects with a combined capacity of 123 MW and two under-construction projects totaling 52.6 MW have also been affected. The Trishuli 220 kV 3B Hub Substation has been completely damaged, along with several transmission lines and towers operating at various voltages.

Impact on Power Supply

The loss of 431 MW is significant for Nepal’s electricity system as it represents roughly 10 per cent of the country's installed generation capacity. The immediate concern is not just the loss of generation capacity but also the combined impact on power generation and transmission networks. NEA MD Dirghayu Kumar Shrestha stated that while there will be no difficulty in managing power supply throughout the rainy season, challenges are expected during the dry season when other hydropower projects' production declines significantly.

Rescue Operations

Hundreds of workers associated with hydropower projects in Rasuwa and Nuwakot have remained unaccounted for. Rescue operations are continuing at project sites, including tunnels where workers are believed to be trapped. Shrestha said that rescue efforts have been intensified with the mobilization of both domestic and international teams.

Economic Impact

The disaster has raised concerns over the economic impact on Nepal's hydropower sector, which could face losses worth tens of billions of rupees. The actual extent of the loss can only be determined after completing detailed assessments of individual hydropower projects and electrical infrastructure.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.