India has expressed its readiness to further invest in Nepal’s hydropower sector, signaling growing energy cooperation between the two neighbors.
Nepal's Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka, and India's Minister for Power, Manohar Lal Khattar, conducted a joint inspection of the Arun III Hydropower Project in Sankhuwasabha on Tuesday, April 22.
Khattar also holds the Housing & Urban Affairs portfolio.
The Arun III project, a major undertaking backed by Indian investment, is being developed by India’s Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) at an estimated cost of Rs 104 billion. With a projected generation capacity of 900 megawatts, it stands as one of the largest hydropower projects in Nepal.
During the visit, the two ministers jointly inaugurated ‘Unit-2’ of the project and participated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony on the project site.
Both ministers reviewed the current status of the project and discussed its timeline and impact. Minister Khattar emphasized the importance of timely completion, stating that it would bring mutual benefits to both nations.
“Nepal has immense potential to achieve prosperity through its energy sector,” said Khattar. “India is committed to enhancing its investment and partnership in Nepal’s hydropower development.”
The foundation stone for the Arun III project was jointly laid nearly seven years ago by then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.
Minister Khattar arrived in Nepal earlier in the day for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in the energy sector.
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