KATHMANDU: The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is set to construct a 132 kV underground transmission line in the heart of Kathmandu.
The project is being developed with the objective of ensuring smooth and reliable electricity supply within the Ring Road area, along with improving urban aesthetics and increasing electricity consumption capacity.
According to the proposal, the underground transmission line will connect Balaju–Maharajgunj–Durbarmarg–Ratnapark–Singha Durbar. The total length of the line from Balaju substation to Singha Durbar will be 11.92 kilometres.
The double-circuit transmission line is expected to be completed within three years. In addition, substations will be constructed at Maharajgunj (132/11 kV), Durbarmarg (132/11 kV), Ratnapark (132/11 kV), and Singha Durbar (132/66/11 kV).
The NEA has applied to the Department of Electricity Development for permission to construct and operate the transmission line and substations.
The project will have a capacity of 132 kV and will be able to transmit up to 350 MW of electricity. A total of 21 joint pits will be constructed, with a maximum distance of 500 metres between them. The project will require around 1.62 hectares of land.
Authorities have stated that construction must comply with Section 24 of the Electricity Act, ensuring minimal environmental impact such as erosion, flooding, and air pollution.
The department has also called for public feedback and suggestions regarding the project.
NEA had previously completed underground transmission lines in the Ratnapark–Maharajgunj area and similar projects are underway in several parts of Kathmandu and Lalitpur. Underground transmission projects are also in their final stages in Pokhara and Bharatpur, although delays have prevented full achievement of expected targets.
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