Budhigandaki hydel project sets compensation rates for affected residents

GORKHA: Compensation for residents impacted by Budhigandaki Hydropower Project has been determined following a meeting of representatives from Chumanubri Rural Municipality in Gorkha district, officials from the project's promoter company Sahas Urja, and local stakeholders.

Sahas Urja Managing Director Him Pathak announced that Rs 300,000 per ana of land has been designated as compensation for plots situated in Salleri area of Chumanubri Rural Municipality-3, the site of dam construction. Compensation rates for other areas include Rs 400,000 per ana for landholdings smaller than four anas and Rs 150,000 per ana for land located beyond the settlement area. Pathak further mentioned that compensation would cover approximately 80 ropanis of land. The issue of compensation for houses remains unaddressed, pending a report from rural municipality technicians.

The project is expected to displace twenty-six households in Chumanubri Rural Municipality, with ongoing discussions on rehabilitation strategies for those affected, according to Nima Lama, Chairperson of the rural municipality.

Budhigandaki Hydropower Project, a 341-MW initiative, is the largest hydropower venture spearheaded by the private sector. Its generated power is set to connect to the national grid through the Ratamate substation in Nuwakot. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 70 billion.

By RSS