Government Allows Land Subdivision Under Transmission Lines

The government has allowed the subdivision of land plots that fall beneath electricity transmission lines, a move aimed at easing long-standing difficulties faced by landowners and facilitating power transmission projects.

Through the third amendment to the Land Use Regulation, 2022, the government has introduced a provision permitting land located within the right of way (RoW) of transmission lines to be subdivided while keeping ownership in the name of the original landowner. The amendment was published in the Nepal Gazette on November 13, 2025, and has already come into effect.

Under the new provision, land beneath transmission lines can be subdivided, but existing safety standards will remain unchanged. Construction of houses or other structures, plantation of tall trees, or engagement in activities deemed risky will continue to be prohibited within the right of way.

The regulation states that land subdivision will be allowed if the concerned project submits a written request along with proof of a decision to acquire the land and evidence that compensation has been paid. In such cases, ownership of the land within the right of way will remain with the landowner.

The right of way refers to a designated area on both sides of a transmission line, defined to ensure safe operation, maintenance and public safety. The width of the right of way is determined based on voltage level, tower height, wire sag and other technical standards.

According to existing provisions, the right of way extends 18 metres for 66 kV and 132 kV transmission lines, 30 metres for 220 kV lines, and 46 metres for 400 kV lines, measured from the centre of the line on both sides.

During transmission line construction, land required for towers is acquired by paying full compensation, and ownership is transferred to the project. However, land falling within the right of way is not acquired; instead, landowners receive partial compensation while retaining ownership. Currently, compensation equivalent to 10 to 25 percent of the assessed land value is provided for land within the right of way.

Previously, landowners faced economic and social difficulties as they were unable to subdivide, transfer ownership, or use such land as collateral for loans when only part of their land fell within the right of way. With the new provision allowing subdivision of land within the right of way, land transactions are expected to become easier, enabling landowners to legally utilise their property.