Kathmandu - A major flood in the Bhotekoshi River has disrupted the operation of hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 230 megawatts. The affected projects include the 111 MW Rasuwagadhi, 60 MW Trishuli 3-A, 21 MW Trishuli, 22 MW Chilime, and 15 MW Benighat Hydropower Projects.

The Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project, which began generating electricity in December 2002, has been completely shut down due to damage in the dam section. Officials have indicated that it may take some time to resume operations. In addition, 31 engineers and employees have been stranded at the project site due to the rising water levels.

The flood has swept away the Miteri Bridge, a vital trade link between Nepal and China, and severely damaged the Rasuwagadhi dam. Project staff located across the river have been cut off, and damaged roads have prevented rescue and evacuation efforts from reaching camps and headquarters.

At the Trishuli 3-A Hydropower Project, flooding has entered the main building, and one of the dam gates has been washed away, delaying restoration efforts. However, the Devighat and Trishuli Hydropower Projects remain functional.

Meanwhile, floodwaters have also entered the Chilime Hydropower Project, but it is expected to be cleaned and brought back into operation soon.

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Image Source : Urjasanchar