More Power from Jagdulla: 124.35 MW Cascade Hydropower Project Takes Shape

Nepal’s hydropower map is set to gain new momentum as a 124.35 MW cascade hydropower project is planned alongside the under-construction 106 MW Jagdulla Hydropower Project under the People’s Hydropower Program. Located along the border areas of Mudkechula Rural Municipality in Dolpa and Nalgad Municipality in Jajarkot, the project was initially proposed at 82.3 MW but later upgraded following detailed technical assessments.

Promoted by Jagdulla Hydropower Company Limited, the project’s capacity enhancement proposal has already been submitted to the Department of Electricity Development and is currently under certification. Designed as a peaking run-of-river project, the scheme has completed most of its feasibility and detailed engineering study works. NEA Engineering Company was contracted in December 2020, and the feasibility study report was submitted in September 2024.

According to the company, financial structuring is progressing in parallel with technical studies. The project’s estimated cost stands at around NPR 30 billion, with financing expected from various banks and financial institutions. Featuring a gross head of 475.3 meters, the project targets annual generation of about 738.2 GWh of electricity. Power will be evacuated through a 132 kV transmission line to the Nalgad Hub Substation. Utilizing a 7-kilometer tunnel system and diverting water to the Triveni area for generation, the project aims to begin construction in FY 2083/84 and achieve commercial operation within four years—adding another strong current to Nepal’s hydropower drive.