Indian Minister Khattar and Nepali Minister Khadka Review Arun-3 Progress, Launch Key Cross-Border Power Projects

Indian Minister for Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar, who arrived in Nepal on Today at the invitation of Nepal’s Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Dipak Khadka, visited the Arun-3 Hydropower Project in Sankhuwasabha. Accompanied by Minister Khadka, the two leaders jointly reviewed the progress of the 900 MW project being developed by India’s SJVN Limited, discussed ways to overcome remaining obstacles, and officially launched the electromechanical works at the powerhouse.

The visit marked a significant milestone in the deepening energy cooperation between Nepal and India, highlighting both countries’ shared commitment to advancing regional power connectivity and clean energy initiatives. During the day, the two ministers also inaugurated a set of critical power infrastructure projects under the Koshi Corridor 220 kV transmission line, constructed with assistance from the Government of India.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Tumlingtar substation in Sankhuwasabha, included the official launch of the Inaruwa-Basantapur-Baneshwor-Tumlingtar transmission line, along with the Tumlingtar, Baneshwor, and Basantapur substations. These facilities are expected to enhance electricity transmission capacity in eastern Nepal, which is emerging as a major hub for hydropower generation.

In a further boost to bilateral energy ties, the Nepal Electricity Authority and India’s Power Grid Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding for the joint construction of two high-capacity international transmission lines: the 400 kV Dodhara (Lumki)-Bareilly line and the 400 kV Inaruwa-Purnia line. These projects aim to facilitate cross-border electricity trade and strengthen the regional power grid. According to Minister Khadka’s secretariat, the two countries also finalized an agreement to establish a new company to oversee the construction of future cross-border transmission infrastructure.

Khattar’s visit carries symbolic and strategic weight as it reflects India’s growing investment in Nepal’s energy infrastructure and signals a maturing partnership built on mutual economic interests. Minister Khattar is also scheduled to travel to the Muktinath Temple in Mustang, followed by courtesy meetings with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakash Man Singh. He is also expected to visit the Pashupatinath Temple before concluding his visit.

The visit underscores the significance of India-Nepal collaboration in energy, infrastructure, and connectivity, as both nations continue to pursue regional power integration and sustainable development.