India approves 18-hour power supply to Nepal amid hydropower losses
Source Entity
Pratyush Deep
India has approved the export of 654 MW of electricity to Nepal to mitigate severe power shortages caused by recent devastating floods. This cross-border energy support will last until December 31, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
India Extends Crucial Energy Lifeline to Flood-Ravaged Nepal
In a significant move to support a neighboring nation during a humanitarian crisis, the Indian Ministry of Power recently announced approval for the expedited export of electricity to Nepal. This decision comes as a direct response to the catastrophic flash floods that have devastated Nepal, resulting in the loss of over 1,300 lives and causing extensive damage to the country's critical hydropower infrastructure. By facilitating this energy transfer, India is helping to stabilize Nepal’s power grid during a period of acute domestic generation shortfall.
Strategic Energy Cooperation
The agreement allows for the export of up to 654 MW of electricity daily to the Nepal Electricity Authority. Specifically, 600 MW will be transmitted through the Muzaffarpur-Dhalkebar 400 kV double-circuit line, while an additional 54 MW will flow through the Tanakpur-Mahendranagar 132 kV single-circuit line. This provision is active for 18 hours per day, spanning from midnight to 6 pm, effectively covering the peak solar-generation hours. The arrangement is scheduled to remain in effect from September 13 through December 31, with a formal review planned for December 2026 to determine energy requirements starting in January 2027.
Impact of Natural Disaster on Infrastructure
Hydropower is the backbone of Nepal's energy sector, but the recent floods have severely compromised this capacity. The destruction of physical infrastructure has left the nation unable to meet its domestic demand, creating an urgent need for external assistance. By stepping in to fill this gap, India is not only preventing a total power blackout in the Himalayan nation but also ensuring that essential services remain functional during the recovery phase of this disaster.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
This initiative highlights the long-standing and evolving energy cooperation between India and Nepal. The Indian Ministry of Power emphasized that this approval is designed to help Nepal navigate a difficult period while further cementing the close diplomatic ties between the two countries. Such energy diplomacy is a hallmark of regional integration, demonstrating how cross-border infrastructure can serve as a vital tool for crisis management and regional stability.
Future Implications and Outlook
Looking ahead, the commitment to review the export quantum by December 2026 suggests a flexible and adaptive approach to regional energy security. As Nepal works to rebuild its damaged hydropower assets, the reliance on Indian electricity will likely be recalibrated. However, this intervention serves as a clear indicator that India remains a primary partner in Nepal’s post-disaster recovery, providing the necessary breathing room for the nation to restore its internal generation capacities and long-term energy independence.