KATHMANDU: The Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN) has urged all operating and under-construction hydropower projects to remain on high alert over the next three days, citing forecasts of intense rainfall that could trigger floods across several river basins.
In a public statement issued on Saturday, IPPAN said that the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has predicted heavy rainfall on July 19, 20, and 21 (Shrawan 3–5), which may cause river water levels to surpass warning thresholds in multiple regions.
Based on this forecast, IPPAN has called on project operators to undertake necessary precautionary measures to mitigate potential damage.
As part of an existing agreement between IPPAN and the Department for the exchange of early flood warning information, the department has been providing regular updates to IPPAN.
According to the latest forecast, eastern Nepal, particularly the Koshi, Tamor, Arun, Tamakoshi, Dudhkoshi, and Kankai river basins, faces a high risk of flooding starting from the evening of July 19 through the morning of July 20. The Koshi River is expected to reach or exceed its warning level.
The current weather system, active in the eastern region, is anticipated to gradually shift westward. On the evening of July 20, the Bagmati River may swell, potentially affecting Kathmandu Valley and its lower floodplains. By July 21, flooding may occur along the Mahakali River and its surrounding areas.
The system is also expected to impact central hilly and lowland districts including Baglung, Myagdi, Parbat, Syangja, Palpa, Nawalparasi, and Rupandehi, with potential disruptions across the Narayani watershed region.
IPPAN has noted a medium-level impact likely in the Rapti and Babai regions and stressed the need for heightened vigilance in the Mahakali area from the evening of July 20 to midday July 21.
IPPAN has asked all affiliated members and hydropower projects nationwide to proactively initiate preparedness efforts aimed at minimizing potential human and structural losses.
Comment