August 25: The Investment Board Nepal (IBN) has approved investment equivalent to Rs 36.37 billion for the development of four hydropower projects.

A meeting of IBN chaired by Board Chair and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' today endorsed the investment for the Rolwaling Khola, Chhujung Khola, Dana Khola and Sanibheri hydropower projects.

The meeting assessed the development of the Tamor reservoir-based hydropower project and decided to constitute a high-level committee to give suggestions regarding the project's future course of action.

Furthermore, a study license has been granted to Dolma Himalayan Energy for the purpose of conducting a feasibility study on a 245-megawatt capacity solar project and a 20-megawatt capacity battery power project in Rajpur rural municipality of Dang.

The comprehensive feasibility study report by Ricen Energy Company Limited, commissioned for the analysis of a 250-megawatt solar energy development project in Kohalpur of Banke and Banganga of Kapilbastu, was duly noted by the Board.

IBN has made a decision to present a proposal before the Council of Ministers for the implementation of the directive order issued by the Supreme Court regarding the Upper Karnali Hydropower Project.

Moreover, the Board has approved the draft of the Memorandum of Understanding to be signed with a company based in Malaysia. This MoU aims to facilitate a study for the establishment of a chemical fertilizer industry.

During the event, Prime Minister Dahal emphasized the importance of thorough study and analysis to ensure the viability of hydroelectricity project costs in the future.

Dahal called for enhanced coordination to ensure the timely completion of ongoing projects and urged for streamlining investment approval and project implementation procedures to achieve tangible outcomes.  (RSS)