Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project Suspends Generation as Flood Risk Rises in Lhende Khola

Electricity generation at the 111 MW Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project was temporarily suspended on Sunday evening after water levels in the Lhende Khola rose and a mud-laden flood was observed.

According to plant chief Santosh Adhikari, the shutdown was carried out as a precautionary measure to protect the project's infrastructure. Power generation is expected to resume once river conditions are deemed safe.

The decision comes a year after a major flood on Asar 24, 2082 severely damaged the project's dam and other structures. Although repairs and reconstruction have since been completed, intake gates were closed again to prevent possible damage from the latest surge. Officials said water levels in both the Lhende Khola and the Bhotekoshi River are being closely monitored. Meanwhile, cargo trucks and newly imported vehicles parked at the Rasuwagadhi Customs Yard have been moved to safer locations due to the rising river flow.

Local authorities have urged residents to stay away from riverbanks and advised drivers to avoid parking vehicles near the rivers. As the Mailung road section remains at risk, the district administration has directed travelers heading to Kerung and Rasuwagadhi to use the Betrawati to Syafrubesi route until further notice.