Guwahati: Nepal is currently emphasizing two key sectors - tourism and hydropower electricity. As a country rich in natural wetlands and abundant hydropower potential, Nepal is actively expanding its electricity export ventures. Recently, Nepal exported 40 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Bangladesh on November 15, 2024, via an Indian transmission route. This one-day transmission marked the first phase of a five-year energy export agreement, according to Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) spokesperson Chandan Ghosh.
Nepal will annually supply power to Bangladesh from November 15 to June 15 for the next five years, with continuous exports expected to resume in June 2025. According to recent reports, the power will be sourced from Nepal’s Trishuli (25 MW) and Chilime (22 MW) hydropower plants.
India’s Muzaffarpur-Baharampur-Bheramara 400-kV transmission line will be used for electricity transportation to Bangladesh. This three-nation power-sharing corridor will ensure consistent energy flow throughout the agreement’s term.
"The five-year power export agreement enables Nepal to provide electricity to Bangladesh without interruptions during the agreed period,” Chandan Ghosh earlier stated.
Business North East (BNE) spoke to Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of Nepal, Lekh Raj Dahal, who revealed that Nepal plans to extend its hydroelectricity network towards the Siliguri Corridor in eastern Nepal. This hydropower expansion aims to strengthen connectivity and enhance energy cooperation and regional integration, according to Lekh Raj Dahal.
“In addition to hydropower, agriculture forms another vital pillar of Nepal’s economy. The country has positioned itself as a major exporter of tea, cardamom, dairy products, and meat. These sectors are being prioritized for further growth and global market penetration,” he added while also encouraging foreign investments in Nepal's hydropower projects.
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Moreover, commenting on trade ties between Nepal and the Northeastern region of India, Lek Raj Dahal highlighted the deep cultural connections between the two areas. He suggested that future collaboration could focus on agricultural exchanges, tourism development, and advancements in the IT sector. These opportunities present a promising path for closer economic integration.
Apart from its initiatives to strengthen trade ties with neighbouring regions, Nepal's focus on hydro-power and agriculture highlights its commitment to sustainable growth and economic collaboration."
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