Butwal–Gorakhpur Power Transmission line construction expedited

KATHMANDU: In a significant development, the Millennium Challenge Account Nepal (MCA-Nepal) Operating Committee announced a groundbreaking decision during its 40th meeting on March 4.

The committee decided to prioritize and expedite the construction of a 315-kilometer transmission line, thereby reducing the length of the Butwal–Gorakhpur power transmission line from 18 kilometers to 315 kilometers. This strategic move is aimed at accelerating the construction process and facilitating energy trade and cooperation between Nepal and India.

Following the committee meeting, Navin Raj Singh, the Secretary and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, highlighted the significance of this decision. “MCA–Nepal has prioritized the importance of this section for the government and the Nepal Electricity Authority.

Once released from the major transmission line network, the procurement process can be expedited, and construction is expected to be completed in Bharat by Asar 08, connecting to the under-construction transmission lines,” stated Singh.

The Butwal–Gorakhpur cross-border transmission line is a crucial component of the Nepal–India Energy Exchange Agreement, aiming to meet Nepal’s energy needs and streamline cross-border electricity trade.

The construction management agreement was reached between the governments of Nepal and India in June 2020, and MCA–Nepal has already initiated the procurement process for design-build construction services for the 297 kilometers of transmission lines.

MCA–Nepal assures stakeholders that the construction will adhere to the stipulated timeframe, within budget, and in accordance with environmental and social standards set by the governments of Nepal and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).

This commitment is explicitly stated in the official notice released by MCA–Nepal, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to the successful and timely completion of this critical infrastructure project.