Nepal Electricity Authority

The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) plans to construct an 11.92 km, 132-kV underground transmission line in central Kathmandu to ensure reliable electricity distribution within the Ring Road area and enhance urban aesthetics. The project, expected to be completed within three years, will connect Balaju Substation to Singha Durbar via Maharajgunj and Ratna Park, and will also include the construction of several new substations.

A 35-year-old woman, Phul Kumari Devi, died after her mud house collapsed during a storm in Rautahat. The incident occurred due to strong winds, and she was pronounced dead at Better Nepal Hospital. Separately, strong winds and fallen trees have disrupted electricity supply in parts of Nepal, with the Nepal Electricity Authority mobilizing technical teams for restoration.

Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has declared reservoir-based hydropower projects as a high priority for the government, emphasizing their crucial role in Nepal's long-term energy security, industrial development, and economic transformation. Following an inspection of the Kulekhani Hydropower Project, Shrestha stated that these projects are vital for electricity generation, water management, flood control, irrigation, and tourism, especially in light of climate change impacts.

Nepal's Energy Minister Shrestha has declared reservoir-type hydroelectric projects a national priority, emphasizing their crucial role in long-term energy security, industrial growth, and economic transformation. The government's focus will be on developing these projects, which are seen as vital for electricity generation, water management, and climate change adaptation. The minister also highlighted the need to attract domestic and foreign investment for such initiatives.

The Power Transmission and Distribution Strengthening System Project in Madhesh Province, supported by Norway, has formally concluded, successfully expanding regional power networks and providing reliable grid access. The initiative also supported over 400 local entrepreneurs, many of whom are women, with new livelihood opportunities and introduced clean cooking alternatives.

A technical issue with a 12 MVA power transformer's earthing system at the Nepal Electricity Authority's substation in Markichowk, Tanahun district, has disrupted power supply. The disruption, which began Wednesday evening, has affected parts of Tanahun, Gorkha, and Chitwan districts. Efforts are underway to restore power through alternative grids.

The Office of the Auditor General has directed the recovery of Rs 26.03 billion in premium arrears from industries utilizing dedicated feeders and trunk lines. This directive, part of the 63rd annual report, reiterates a demand made since the 60th report, highlighting significant negligence and irregularities in tariff collection and other operations by the Electricity Authority.