Nepal's Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, announced significant progress towards nationwide electricity access. Speaking at the inauguration of a new transmission line and substation, he revealed that 98% of the population now has access to electricity.

Prime Minister Dahal expressed confidence in achieving complete electrification within the next year and a half. He highlighted a recently approved action plan by the Council of Ministers aimed at boosting domestic electricity consumption. This plan targets sectors like transportation, where the use of electric vehicles is flourishing, leading to a decrease in petroleum product imports.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the environmental challenges associated with power grid expansion, particularly deforestation and land acquisition for transmission lines. He stressed the importance of balancing development with environmental protection.

The newly inaugurated Masryangdi-Kathmandu 220 KV transmission line and Matatirtha 220 KV substation represent a collaborative effort between the Nepali government, Nepal Electricity Authority, the Norwegian government, and the Asian Development Bank.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Nepal, paving the way for a more sustainable and electrified future.