450 MW Seti River-6 Hydropower Project
The Investment Board Nepal has granted permission to NHPC Limited, an Indian company, to conduct a feasibility study of the proposed 450 MW Seti River-6 Hydropower Project. The project will be built in the Doti and Achham districts of Nepal and aims to provide the country with much-needed electricity.
NHPC’s involvement in Nepal’s Hydropower Projects
NHPC Limited is no stranger to hydropower projects in Nepal. The company was previously tasked with carrying out the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the 750 MW West Seti Hydroelectric Project. The estimated cost of both projects is around 300 billion Nepalese rupees, with NHPC committing to invest Rs. 288 billion.
Benefits of the Seti River-6 Hydropower Project
The Seti River-6 Hydropower Project is a crucial development in Nepal’s efforts to increase its power generation capacity and provide electricity to its people. The project will create jobs and spur economic growth in the region, as well as reduce Nepal’s reliance on imported electricity. Additionally, Nepal will receive 21.9% of the West Seti Hydropower Project’s energy for free as per the agreement.
Entrusting NHPC with the Hydropower Projects
Following the cancellation of the agreement with a Chinese company, the Investment Board Nepal has decided to entrust the construction of the West Seti Hydroelectric Project with an indicative connected capacity of 750 MW and the Seti River-6 Hydroelectric Project with an indicative connected capacity of 450 MW to NHPC Limited.
Environmental and Social Impacts
It is essential to assess the potential environmental and social impacts of the hydropower projects carefully. The feasibility study will evaluate the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of the projects, including an assessment of the site’s geology, hydrology, and topography. The study will also determine any negative environmental impacts and the potential mitigation measures.
Month: Current Affairs - March, 2023
Category: International / World Current Affairs