Kulekhani dam worries locals, NEA assures planned approach

The Kulekhani dam (Indrasarovar Lake) used as a reservoir for the Kulekhani hydropower project, the country’s only reservoir-based power project, is in a sorry state. Over the course of the past few months, it has dried up significantly, raising concern among locals and environmentalists.

While the locals are worried it will drive away domestic tourists, environmentalists argue it will have a long-term impact on the region. Despite the concerns, the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) intends to persist in utilising water from the reservoir for electricity generation, as stated by NEA Managing Director Kulman Ghising, who expects the water level to decrease by an additional 10 meters.