Why the Global South is owed USD 5 trillion in climate reparations

The superstorms, floods, and heat waves of 2024 have been devastating for people and communities worldwide. Losses and damages have

The unprecedented achievements of the Biden-Harris Administration for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders

The Biden-Harris Administration has made unparalleled strides in advancing equity, justice, and opportunity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific

A young entrepreneur’s open letter to Prime Minister Oli

‘I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am a young entrepreneur, and as one

Beijing+30 review: What it means for Nepal’s women and girls with disabilities

The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, abbreviated as ‘BPfA’, is the global bill of rights for women’s equality. It

How global partnership can help greener future campaign

My recent European tour reaffirmed the pivotal role international partnerships play in addressing the complex challenges facing the Hindu Kush

Contract for 18 km cross border transmission line of MCC project signed

The $ 12.36 million contract, awarded to Transrail Lighting Ltd, is for constructing the transmission line from the 400 kV New Butwal Substation to the Nepal-India border within 21 months.

Kathmandu: MCA-Nepal signed a contract for the critical 18 km cross-border electricity transmission line, a critical component of the broader Electricity Transmission Project under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact funded by the Government of Nepal and the US Government. As MCA-Nepal marks the one-year anniversary of the Compact’s Entry-Into-Force, this new milestone reflects the unwavering commitment from all stakeholders to enhancing regional energy trade between Nepal and India.

The contract, valued at USD 12.36 million, has been awarded to Transrail Lighting Ltd, which will construct the transmission line from the 400 kV New Butwal Substation in Nawalparasi Bardhaghat Susta West to the Nepal-India border within the contract duration of 21 months.

The contract was signed by Khadga Bahadur Bisht, Executive Director of MCA-Nepal, and Amol Wankhede, representative of Transrail Lighting Ltd, in the presence of officials from the Ministry of Finance, National Electricity Authority (NEA), MCC and MCA-Nepal.

Ram Prasad Ghimire, Secretary at Ministry of Finance and MCA-Nepal Board Chair said, “Along with the signings of the three substation contracts worth USD 126 million, this 18 km transmission line project is set to play an important role in helping Nepal make strides in achieving its domestic power goals and reinforcing Nepal’s position in the regional energy market.” 

Kul Man Ghising, Managing Director at NEA, said that the 18 km segment is not just a construction project but a critical link that will enhance Nepal’s energy infrastructure and deepen our cross-border energy cooperation with India. “This accomplishment is a testament to the strategic foresight and dedication of all involved,” he said.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Diane L Francisco, MCC Resident Country Director, said, “The successful contracting of the 18 km cross-border transmission line marks a major milestone in our shared journey to transform Nepal’s energy landscape and economic future. This achievement is one of many successes of the MCC Nepal Compact in the past year, but it is particularly significant as it paves the way for the larger 297 km transmission line project.”

Khadga Bahadur Bisht, Executive Director of MCA-Nepal, added, “As we celebrate the first anniversary of the MCC-Nepal Compact, this contract signing is a clear indicator of the progress we are making. The 18 km cross-border segment, separated from the larger project to expedite its completion, shows the Government of Nepal’s commitment to meeting the project goals of this National Pride Project, and reaffirms that collaborative effort from all stakeholders leads to a successful outcome.”

For the remaining 297 km of transmission line, preparations are on track to launch the bid before the end of this year, MCA-Nepal said.