Basantpur-Dhunge Sangu 220 kV Transmission Line Boosts Hydroelectric Power Integration in Nepal's Koshi Corridor
The Basantpur-Dhungesanghu 220 kV double transmission line, a crucial component of the Koshi Corridor Transmission Line Project in Nepal, has completed its first circuit construction. Spanning 35 km and crossing elevations from sea level to 3,000 meters, the line integrates electricity from hydroelectric projects on the Tamor River and its tributaries into the national transmission system. With 127 towers erected, the line connects the Basantpur substation in Dharmadevi to the Dhunge Sangu substation in Maiwakhola, enhancing the power flow.
The Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, Kulman Ghising, affirmed that the completion ensures a smooth electricity flow for the 73 MW Middle Tamor Hydropower Project in Taplejung. The Basantpur substation expansion, featuring 6 bays and 3 Beka devices, aims to conclude by the first week of Chaitra.
The entire project, executed by KEC International, India, under a $24 million contract, commenced in Jestha 2075. The transmission line and Dhunge Sangu substation are prepared to receive electricity from hydropower projects, enhancing voltage and reliability. Despite the readiness, the 220 kV line currently operates at reduced capacity until hydropower project construction is completed.
Under Package-4 of the Koshi Corridor Transmission Line Project, work on the second circuit of the Basantpur-Dhunge Sangu transmission line and bay extension at the Basantpur substation is progressing. A contract signed with Nepal Hydro and Electric Ltd. is expected to be completed within the next one and a half months.
Additionally, Packages 1 and 2 involve the completion of 220 kV double circuit towers from Tumlingtar to Inaruwa Substation and the operation of substations in Inaruwa, Tumlingtar, Baneshwor, and Basantpur. The Koshi Corridor, the longest 220 kV transmission line in Nepal, aims to connect hydropower projects in Koshi province to the national transmission line, transmitting about 1,000 MW each from Tumlingtar to Basantpur and Dhunge Sangu to Basantpur, and about 2,000 MW from Basantpur to Inaruwa.
