Nepal Infrastructure 
KATHMANDU: Despite the high potential for hydropower generation in Bagmati Province, industrialists have complained that an insufficient supply of electricity is hampering industrial operations.
At a program on sustainable development of Bagmati Province organized by the Independent Power Producers Association, Nepal (IPPAN) and the International Finance Commission (IFC), president of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Bagmati Province, Dil Sunder Shrestha said that the industries are getting enough electricity which led to fewer industrial activities in the province.
Rajan Dhakal, Head of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), Bagmati Province, said NEA has given high priority to providing electricity to the industries adding that sporadic cases of power outage are coincidental and would be resolved soon.
According to Dhakalthe , the construction of a substation in New Khimchi Lapsiphedi, Matatirtha, is underway keeping in view the need for electricity in Kathmandu in next 20 years.
“Necessary infrastructure is being built to consume about 3,500 megawatts of Electricity” said Dhakal.
Kumar Pandey, the former vice president of IPPAN, gave a presentation on the procedural difficulties and problems facing developers while going through the construction process of hydropower projects in Nepal.
“The study of the project takes about eight to 10 years, and it is difficult to get support from local and other agencies. In order to invest in hydropower, great patience is required; if there is not enough capital, it will be difficult to complete the project,” said Pandey.
“It would be easier if the local units extend support during the construction period,” he added. Mohan Kumar Shakya, Secretary, Ministry of Energy, Bagmati Province, highlighted the policies and programs being implemented by the ministry to promote electricity generation and consumption.
Muktibodh Neupane, a chartered accountant, said promoters should clearly analyze the opportunities and challenges before investing in the hydropower sector.
“It will be easier if you understand the role of bank investment in hydropower, the role of insurance, and the role of other stakeholders. If the government entrusts the private sector in hydropower project construction, the cost will go down while profit will be higher,” said Neupane.
