KMC installing more than 1,200 solar lamps

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has started installing solar street lamps in the streets under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. KMC installing more than 1,200 solar lamps

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Published at : January 1, 2017

Updated at : January 1, 2017 08:48

Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has started installing solar street lamps in the streets under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

As per an agreement reached with the KMC on October 19, BK Traders and Suppliers started installation works from last week. A total of 1,285 solar lamps will be installed across the metropolis in three phases. This will add to 1,600 solar-powered street lamps that the KMC has already installed in various parts of the Capital.

“This new model will be a sustainable option to keep the Valley’s roads illuminated,” Chief Executive Officer of the KMC Rudra Sing Tamang said. “BK Traders, under public-private partnership will generate money by selling advertisement space on each lamp post.”

The solar street lamp project was introduced by the KMC in 2014 under its Kathmandu Ujyalo Programme with the support from the Asian Development Bank. “The street lamp installation will cost Rs227 million,” said Chairman of BK Traders Roshan Shrivastab, adding that installation has started from Anamnagar area.

According to KMC Spokesperson Gyanendra Karki, over 400 solar lamps will be installed in the first phase in New Bus Park, Balaju, Sorakhutte, Chettrapati, Thamel among other areas, starting from Kalanki to Maitighar, Kesharmahal Chowk to Thamel area.

Around 500 lamps will be installed in the second phase, covering Durbarmarg to Kathmandu Plaza, Kamalpokhari and Gaushala.

In the third phase, 384 solar lamps will be installed in Sankhamul, New Baneshwor, Tinkune, Koteshwor, Narephant, Old Baneshwor, Bhimsengola and Sinamangal.

Under the agreement, BK Traders will pay Rs8,000 per solar lamp to the KMC for 10 years. After that period, the ownership of all the solar lamps, battery and advertising boards will automatically transfer to the KMC.

BK Traders will also be responsible for maintenance of lamps throughout the agreement period, said Deepak Adhikari, chief of the KMC procurement unit. Maintenance works include cleaning of the solar panels every month, fixing and replacing of bulbs and other components.