India has approved an expedited supply of up to 654 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Nepal to support the country’s recovery from severe flash floods. The floods caused significant damage to several hydropower plants, disrupting Nepal’s electricity generation and supply. India has approved an expedited electricity supply to Nepal after floods damaged several hydropower projects and affected Nepal’s power generation. India will allow Nepal to import up to 654 MW of electricity for 18 hours a day from 13 September to 31 December 2026.

Why in the News?

Nepal’s hydropower plants have been devastated due to the recent floods, leading to an electricity shortage. Hence, the Ministry of Power, Government of India, has decided to supply power to Nepal. The approval will help Nepal overcome its power shortage during this period of crisis.

How Much Power and for What Duration Will Be Supplied?

The power will be supplied for 18 hours a day from 13 September to 31 December 2026. The approved supply will go through two important cross-border transmission links:

  • Up to 600 MW through the Muzaffarpur–Dhalkebar 400 kV transmission line.
  • Up to 54 MW through the Tanakpur–Mahendranagar 132 kV transmission line.

Does Electricity Trade Already Exist Between India and Nepal?

  • Nepal used to import electricity from India during winter months, as hydropower potential reduces due to freezing of glaciers in the Himalayas and lower availability of water.
  • During the summer months, Nepal used to export its excess hydroelectricity to India.

In 2025-26, India imported 3299 million units (MU) from Nepal and exported 1451 million units to it. Hence, India was exporting less and importing more. But now the scenario changes.

From Which HEPs in Nepal Was India Importing Hydroelectricity?

India has been importing hydropower from Nepal from multiple hydroelectric power projects (HEPs), including:

  • Upper Tamakoshi HEPP
  • Trishuli HEPP
  • Devighat HEPP
  • Likhu Khola Projects, including Likhu (2) and Likhu Khola A
  • Lower Solu Hydropower Project
  • Chilime Hydropower Plant (22.1 MW)
  • Thulo Khola Hydropower Project
  • Super Kabeli Khola and Super Kabeli Khola A

Has the Government of India Funded or Built Any of These HEPPs?

Yes.

  • Trishuli HEPP
  • Devighat HEPP

Apart from these two, the Government of India is also constructing the following hydropower projects in Nepal:

  • Arun-III HEP (900 MW)
  • Lower Arun HEP (679 MW)
  • Arun-4 HEP (490 MW)
  • West Seti

The supply of electricity by India largely overlaps with those months when India traditionally used to export electricity to Nepal. But this year India starts early and will export more. This is very much needed by Nepal. We claim to be the first responder; it shall be about consistent responder also. After all, a friend in need is a friend indeed.

Conclusion

India has approved an expedited electricity supply to Nepal after floods damaged several hydropower projects and affected Nepal’s power generation. India will allow Nepal to import up to 654 MW of electricity for 18 hours a day from 13 September to 31 December 2026. The supply will include 600 MW through the Muzaffarpur–Dhalkebar transmission line and 54 MW through the Tanakpur–Mahendranagar line. The decision will help Nepal manage its electricity shortage and maintain a stable power supply during the recovery period. Nepal depends heavily on hydropower for its electricity needs, making damage to hydropower projects a major concern. The move also highlights the growing India–Nepal energy partnership. Cross-border electricity trade can support Nepal’s energy security while strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. The decision is also important for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and regional energy cooperation.