New Concept Introduced by Government to Mitigate Disaster Risks After Bhote Koshi-Trishuli Floods

Following the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, which caused the greatest destruction ever seen in Nepal’s hydropower sector, the government has introduced a new concept requiring stricter safety measures for future development projects. On Tuesday, the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation announced that this concept aims to minimize potential risks at project sites and ensure the safety of workers.

Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha stated that significant policies have been proposed to enhance the construction, safety, and management of projects. Organizations from the private sector actively involved in hydropower development have welcomed this concept and expressed their readiness to work accordingly. “While it may not be possible to prevent 100 percent of catastrophic floods that occur once in thousands of years, implementing such concepts can significantly reduce human and material losses,” said Mohankumar Dangi, Chairman of the Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN).

According to Ministry spokesperson Mohankumar Shakya, the concept mainly comprises six key points. The first emphasizes mandatory structural insurance. “Particularly in the private sector, financial management requires compulsory insurance. The lack of insurance in government projects may have contributed to problems during the recent disaster, whereas insurance is being implemented in private projects. Full insurance coverage can help mitigate risks to some extent,” Dangi explained.

The government’s concept also mandates the appointment of a safety officer for each project. Additionally, it requires regular rescue training, the development and implementation of clear emergency plans, and maintaining a 30-day stockpile of food and essential supplies at hydropower powerhouse facilities. The concept further calls for the restructuring of tunnels. “All these points will be incorporated into policy management and integrated into the approval process for hydropower development projects going forward,” Shakya added.