KATHMANDU: The 456 MW Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project, Nepal’s largest operating hydropower facility, aims to resume electricity generation by December 25 following extensive damage caused by landslides on September 27 and 28.
Heavy rains triggered landslides that severely affected key components, including the control room building, desander ponds, and the underground canal in Lamabagar, Dolakha.
The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) announced that maintenance of the left desander is prioritized, with tasks including repairing damaged slopes and grouting cracks in the culvert walls and ceilings.
Concurrently, reconstruction of the right desander and plans to relocate the control room underground are set to be completed before the next rainy season.
To address peak electricity demand during winter, NEA has scheduled repairs to ensure partial operation by December end, with full-capacity operation possible during low-demand periods. A damaged transmission line tower has already been restored.
During an on-site inspection, NEA Managing Director Kulman Ghising stressed the urgency of timely maintenance to meet domestic electricity demand. With limited import options from India, ensuring Upper Tamakoshi’s functionality is critical to prevent potential shortages during peak winter months.
CEO Mohan Prasad Gautam affirmed that all measures are being taken to adhere to the schedule and resume electricity production swiftly.
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