Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, undertook a significant visit to Nepal today, marking a new chapter in India-Nepal energy cooperation. Accompanied by Nepal’s Minister of Energy, Water Resources & Irrigation, Shri Dipak Khadka, and senior officials from both nations, the Union Minister reviewed key bilateral energy initiatives aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable power development.

During his visit to the 900 MW Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project in Nepal’s Sankhuwasabha district, Shri Manohar Lal reviewed the progress of this landmark project being developed by SJVN Limited, a leading Indian public sector enterprise. The Arun-3 project stands as a symbol of robust India-Nepal partnership in the hydropower sector. On this occasion, Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the commencement of electromechanical works at the powerhouse site, a critical milestone towards the project’s timely completion.

Later in Kathmandu, in the august presence of Shri Manohar Lal and Shri Dipak Khadka, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between POWERGRID, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) of India, and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). This MoU paves the way for the incorporation of two joint venture companies—one in India and one in Nepal—to implement high-capacity cross-border transmission infrastructure.

The proposed projects include the development of the 400 kV Inaruwa (Nepal)–New Purnea (India) and 400 kV Dododhara (Nepal)–Bareilly (India) double-circuit transmission systems. These critical transmission links will significantly boost power exchange capabilities between the two countries, fostering energy security, grid stability, and economic growth across the region.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Yatindra Dwivedi, Director (Personnel), POWERGRID, and Shri Kamal Acharya, Director, Grid Operation Department, NEA.

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