The project continues to progress steadily across all major components at the headworks. Elevation gains at the raised weir, completion of foundational elements at the undersluice, and ongoing earthworks in the pondage area point to a positive trend toward key milestones. Current efforts are focused on increasing structure heights, backfilling, and implementing the proposed structural works at the pondage slope.
During the reporting period, significant progress was recorded at the raised weir, which now stands at an elevation of 1,997 meters — an advancement of 29 meters from the base. Work continues steadily alongside the undersluice and pondage area, keeping the intake structure aligned with the project's construction milestones.
Concreting of the raft at the undersluice is complete. Vertical and radial gate embedments are installed, and both the left and right walls — 4 meters and 3 meters respectively from the bucket portion — are finished. The wall has been raised to the foundation level of the intake, and the intake's raft foundation is also complete.
Slope cutting and heavy excavation are ongoing along the right bank upstream of the raised weir, spanning approximately 250 meters in length at a slope of 2:1, as the pondage structure is prepared for the project's peaking operation.
The headrace pipe alignment is accessible via a motorable road, supporting transport and construction activity. Excavation at crossing points is underway and blasting is complete. A total of 43 anchor blocks are finished, jacketing is progressing on most support piers, and 4,600 meters of pipe have been laid along the alignment to date. Four major siphon and bridge crossings are identified, with abutment construction in progress.
Concreting up to 6 meters from the crank level (EL. 1990.6) is complete, with backfilling around the surge tank also finished. Further concreting is temporarily on hold, with plans to use scaffolding relocated from the powerhouse.
Excavation from Anchor Block 17 to 18 through the concrete casing area upstream of the powerhouse is complete, with a saddle pad installed to support the pipe. Erection of 450 meters of penstock pipe and concrete casing of 220 meters are finished, with bioengineering planned to stabilize soil on the inclined section.
Civil works at the powerhouse are complete up to the corbel beam level, with rebar finished and formwork placed for concreting. Machine floor concreting is partially held back to allow the electromechanical contractor to install embedded parts for the turbine and generator. The cooling chamber is complete and the oil tank slab is underway.
"The Isuwa Khola Hydropower Project has brought significant improvements to our daily lives, particularly with the road development and access to essential services. It's more than just a power project; it's a partner in our community's growth."
Share holder
"The Isuwa Khola Hydropower Project has brought tangible benefits to our village. The new access roads have significantly improved connectivity, and their support for our local Gumba and drinking water schemes shows a true commitment to community well-being. This project is making a real difference in our lives."
Community Leader, Makalu Rural Municipality
"As a partner involved in the civil works, I've been consistently impressed by the scale and precision of the Isuwa Khola Hydropower Project. The progress on critical structures like the powerhouse and headrace pipe is remarkable, reflecting strong engineering and dedicated execution. It's a privilege to contribute to such a vital national asset."
Construction Manager, Civil Works Contractor
"Our collaboration with K.B.N.R Isuwa Power Limited on the transmission line has been a testament to effective partnership. The project's strategic importance for Nepal's energy future is clear, and we're proud to be part of an initiative that is so crucial for national development and energy independence."
Project Coordinator, Transmission Line Partner
