Lack of fuel, cement and iron rods, among others, has delayed the construction works at many hydropower projects, according to the investors.Hewa 'A' Hydropower Project (14.9 MW) was expected to be completed within December. However, the project works have been at a standstill due to the current crisis.
"We would have completed the project within December had there been no interruptions in the works. Acute fuel crisis and inability to transport materials due to banda have severely affected our works," said project head Pushpa Jyoti Dhungana. "The more the project is delayed, the more expensive it is going to get," she added.
Likewise, Fawa Khola Hydropower Project had also aimed to complete construction works by this month. However, shortage of construction materials has prevented it from meeting its target.
"Effect of the blockade and prolonged banda is clear. The delay is costing us about Rs 1 million daily," said Birendra Shrestha, the project head. "We will know when we will be also to complete the project only after the supply of raw materials eases."
Similarly, Lower Hewa Hydropower Project (21 MW), which is being constructed on the border between Phidim and Varpa, has also been badly affected by the lack of construction materials.
These three hydro projects employ around 1,000 laborers. The projects, backed by bank loans and shareholders' money, are incurring huge losses due to the ongoing obstructions, claimed project officials.
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