Flood Damage Halts 6 MW Relekhola Hydropower Project in Myagdi

The 6 MW Relekhola Hydropower Project in Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, Narchyang, Myagdi, has been forced to suspend power generation after floodwaters entered the project’s dam and caused significant damage.

The project has stopped electricity generation completely following damage to the dam located at the base of Relekholā. According to Project Chief Darshan Kafle, the damage occurred following heavy rainfall and flooding between September 24 and 27.

The project is situated in a remote and geographically difficult area, where access has been further disrupted by landslides. Several sections of the access road have been blocked, making it difficult for project personnel to reach the site, divert water, and carry out repair and restoration works.

The project, which was completed last year, had connected its electricity generation to the national grid through the 220 kV Dana Substation.

The flooding and landslides triggered by the Kali Gandaki River have also caused damage to the project's transmission infrastructure. Several transmission line towers have reportedly been washed away, while wires have also been damaged or broken.

The extent of the damage to the dam, transmission infrastructure and other project components is expected to determine how long it will take to resume electricity generation.