Nepal will receive $257 million from the World Bank to improve electricity distribution and irrigation services across several provinces. The funding, approved on May 29, aims to help communities improve life quality and support farmers facing growing climate challenges.
The support is divided between two projects. The first, at $120 million, will focus on making electricity supply more reliable in Koshi, Bagmati, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim regions. The Nepal Electricity Authority plans to build new substations, upgrade networks, and set up automated monitoring to keep the system running smoothly.
The second project brings $137 million to modernize irrigation in Kailali district, Sudurpashchim. The third phase of the Rani Jamara Kulariya initiative will expand year-round irrigation to 17,500 more hectares, reaching about 160,000 people. The Department of Water Resources and Irrigation and the Department of Agriculture are leading these improvements together.
“An uninterrupted electricity supply and adequate, year-round irrigation services are important for Nepal’s development,” said David Sislen, World Bank Country Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He pointed to the focus on using hydropower, stronger infrastructure, and support for farmers working to adapt to changing weather.
The projects also include training for electric network workers and local water user groups. The goal is to help these teams manage new investments and make sure improvements last for years to come.
