A significant milestone was achieved on Wednesday as the Rs10.05 billion diversion tunnel of the Sunkoshi Marin multipurpose project saw a breakthrough, offering hope to the perennially parched central Tarai region of Nepal. This breakthrough occurred six months ahead of its completion deadline, marking a remarkable feat for the project.
The 13.3-km diversion tunnel, situated in Sindhuli district along the BP Highway, is set to redirect a portion of the Sunkoshi River’s flow to the Marin River, a tributary of the Bagmati River. The aim is to provide irrigation to farmlands in the central Tarai, covering districts such as Rautahat, Dhanusha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, and Bara.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal was present at the final point of the tunnel’s breakthrough, emphasizing the project’s significance in providing economic opportunities and year-round irrigation to the region.
The Rs87 billion Sunkoshi Marin project, spanning Sindhuli and Ramechhap districts, aims not only to provide irrigation but also to generate hydropower. The project’s hydropower component, expected to cost Rs49.42 billion, includes the construction of the tunnel, headworks, powerhouse, transmission line, river management, and capacity building works.
Despite the substantial investment, there may be variations in the estimated costs, particularly for the irrigation scheme, once the detailed project report is completed.
The project, designated as a national pride project since January 2020, is set to be completed by July 2027, with a two-year defects liability period for necessary repairs.
In addition to irrigation, the project intends to generate 31.07 megawatts of electricity through a powerhouse on the Marin River, contributing to Nepal’s energy needs.
The achievement of this milestone underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the long-standing water scarcity issues in the Tarai region. Insufficient rainfall and a shortage of laborers have compounded the challenges faced by local farmers, making year-round irrigation vital for boosting agricultural production and the economy.
The project’s environmental impact assessment highlights both benefits and challenges, including land inundation and road relocation. However, the promise of year-round irrigation brings hope for increased agricultural productivity, particularly in paddy cultivation, which forms a significant part of Nepal’s economy.
Despite challenges, the Sunkoshi Marin Multipurpose Project represents a crucial step towards addressing the water needs of Nepal’s Tarai region and fostering agricultural growth and economic development.
