Former PM Deuba confirms progress on West Seti hydropower project by India

Dadeldhura: Nepali Congress Chairman and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, currently visiting his home district of Dadeldhura, stated that the West Seti hydropower project is effectively underway. He emphasized that with India’s involvement in the project, completion will be beneficial for Nepal. "India is now constructing West Seti, which is very positive," Deuba said. "It is practically built. The completion of West Seti will make things easier for us."

India’s Navratna company, NHPC Limited, submitted the draft Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the West Seti and Seti River-6 (SR-6) hydropower projects to Nepal's Board of Investment on Asar 5, according to former Investment Board Director Sushil Bhatta. Once the Investment Board provides study feedback, NHPC will finalize the DPR, after which the Project Development Agreement (PDA) process can move forward.

The DPR will cover the social, economic, geographical, technical, and environmental aspects of the project. It will also outline the estimated project cost, start and completion dates, market assurance, transmission line construction, and financial resources. According to earlier estimates, the 750 MW West Seti project is expected to cost $1.32 billion, while the 450 MW SR-6 project is estimated at $800 million.

Deuba, visiting various rural municipalities in Dadeldhura, also highlighted the improved infrastructure in the region, noting that paved roads have made travel much easier. Recalling the days when water access and radios were scarce, he praised the development of water supply systems and road networks. He also announced that feasibility and detailed surveys for an airport in Ajaymeru Rural Municipality-1, Puilek, will begin soon, with budgeting to follow. He pointed to a dozen concrete bridges built in the past decade, significantly enhancing local connectivity.