The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is implementing alternative power arrangements to support the construction of the Kathmandu-Tarai-Madhes Fast Track (KTFT). The ongoing works in Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-8, Mandu Maltabensi, and Indrasarowar Rural Municipality-3, Sisneri Kogate had faced disruptions due to insufficient electricity supply.

To address this, the NEA plans to repurpose an existing 66 kV line from the Kulekhani First Hydropower Station into an 11 kV line to ensure uninterrupted electricity for bridges, tunnels, and other structures. A 22.5 MVA power transformer stored in Kathmandu will be installed at Dhorsing Substation, supplementing the existing 5 MVA transformer, which is operating at full capacity.

These measures are temporary until the reconstruction of two damaged hydropower projects, Bagmati Khola Small Hydropower Plant and Khanikhola Hydropower Project, is completed. The floods and landslides in September had severely damaged infrastructure, cutting off power to the KTFT area.

NEA Managing Director Kul Man Ghising visited the affected sites, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining construction progress. “The national pride project must not be delayed because of power supply issues,” he said.

Deputy Managing Director Manoj Silwal directed local teams to expedite restoration efforts. The NEA expects the temporary arrangements to sustain construction activities until the damaged plants are operational by mid-April.