Challenges and Delays in the Bheri-Babai Diversion Project
The Bheri-Babai Diversion Multipurpose Project, aimed at providing irrigation and electricity to farmers in western Nepal, has faced significant delays that have raised concerns among stakeholders. Despite some surface-level progress, the project’s core objectives remain uncertain, leaving local communities frustrated.
One of the primary goals of the project is to channel water from the Bheri River to the Babai River through an extensive canal system. This would ensure that farmers in Bardiya and Banke receive adequate irrigation, allowing them to increase their crop production. According to Dinesh Paudel, an information officer for the Babai Irrigation Project, the canal system could irrigate up to 36,000 hectares in Bardiya and 15,000 hectares in Banke. Even without tunnel construction, the canal system could still provide irrigation to 28,000 hectares of land.
However, the project’s focus on tunnel construction has diverted attention from its main purpose. While the tunnel is expected to generate 46.8 MW of electricity, the lack of coordination between hydro-mechanical and electro-mechanical work has led to delays. Senior engineer Haribahadur Thapa confirmed that civil construction has not progressed as planned, further complicating the project’s timeline.
Government and Local Concerns
Karnali Province Chief Minister Yamlal Kandel recently expressed dissatisfaction with the project’s slow progress during an on-site inspection. As a government priority, the project has drawn attention from the federal government to prevent further delays. However, concerns remain about the possibility of failing to meet the project’s goals due to inaction.
Local farmers, who have waited over a decade for irrigation, are increasingly frustrated. Many feel that ambitious plans for electricity expansion have overshadowed their need for water. Farmers like Rambahadur Chaudhary argue that their irrigation rights have been neglected in favor of other priorities.
Contractual and Technical Issues
The project involves a partnership between a Chinese company, Guangdong, and a Nepali firm, Raman, for the construction of headworks, surge shafts, and a powerhouse. However, concerns have arisen after the Chinese company reduced its share to 34 percent in the tender. Despite a third extension, the work remains incomplete.
A recent visit to the Chiphle site in Bheri Ganga-11 revealed a deserted construction site, with no employees or representatives present. Only 57 percent of the work has been completed in six months, leading to speculation that another deadline extension may be necessary. Both companies lack experience in the region, contributing to the ongoing challenges.
Consultant and Land Acquisition Issues
Employees have pointed out that the decision to ignore an experienced Iranian consultant responsible for civil construction has caused problems. The consultant had previously contributed to building a strong and durable structure in Chiphle. Former employee Pawan Adhikari noted that the consultant completed work worth Rs 10 million but was instead penalized rather than rewarded.
In addition, land acquisition remains incomplete. The project requires the acquisition of six more hectares, but compensation disputes have complicated the process. Although 16 of the 22 required hectares have been acquired, protests and delays continue. Local residents remain dissatisfied with the unresolved issues.
Future Prospects
The Bheri-Babai Diversion Project is estimated to cost Rs 3.3 billion, with tender bids reducing costs. However, uncertainty remains about the completion date. With delays in civil construction and ongoing disputes, the project faces significant hurdles.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all stakeholders to address the challenges and ensure that the project fulfills its promise to benefit farmers and local communities.