Two hydropower projects based in Myagdi and Mustang districts have been closed after their dams were damaged by the monsoon floods.

Floodings have disrupted the operation of Thapakhola Hydropower Project (13.6 MW ) at Thasang Rural Municipality-1, Mustang, and Tatopani Small Hydropower Project (2 MW) at Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, Myagdi.

Mustang Chief District Officer Shishir Poudel shared that the closure of Thapakhola Hydro has obstructed electricity supply throughout the district.

“Maintenance works have been initiated by mobilising dozers and labourers. However, it may take a few more days to restore the regular supply of power,” he added.

The hydropower had been in operation for the last one year. The shutdown of the project has affected public service delivery and the region’s tourism sector– the main source of livelihood of the district.

Likewise, the Tatopani Hydropower Project, which is under construction, has also come to a grinding halt due to flooding.

Technician Khim Pun said that torrential rains had swept away the pebbles, soil and wires before piling them in the dam.

Landslide survivors to be relocated

The landslide survivors from Guithe and Kavre of Annapurna Rural Municipality-3 are to be relocated to safer areas. Authorities are preparing to relocated 10 families to a safer zone after landslide threat.