The Millennium Challenge Account Nepal (MCA-Nepal) has reopened the bidding process for the construction of a 297-kilometre power transmission line.
This transmission line, part of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact, will enhance Nepal’s power transmission network. Bids must be submitted by January 30, 2025, with the project divided into three sections: Lapsiphedi-Ratmate-New Hetauda, Ratmate-New Damauli, and New Damauli-New Butwal, according to an MCA-Nepal press release.
The relaunch follows a thorough review of the previous bidding process and incorporates design improvements, better access to tower sites, and updates to commercial terms based on bidder feedback. These revisions address the key cost factors identified in the initial bids, ensuring more practical and cost-effective proposals.
On August 30, 2024, MCA-Nepal awarded a USD 12.36 million contract to Transrail Lighting Ltd. for the construction of the 18 km section of the Butwal-Gorakhpur transmission line in Nepal, which is set for completion within 21 months. “With the contract secured for this 18 km stretch, we are confident that the redesigned requirements for the remaining 297 km will generate strong market interest and competitive bids,” said Khadga Bahadur Bisht, Executive Director of MCA-Nepal.
This relaunch represents a significant milestone in the ongoing progress of the MCC Nepal Compact, which has made substantial advancements in the past year. Contractors are already working on three 400 kV substations and the 18 km transmission line, and MCA-Nepal is poised to proceed with the remaining segments, further strengthening Nepal’s energy infrastructure.
MCA-Nepal remains committed to the successful execution of this procurement and transmission line construction while adhering to the environmental and social standards of both the Government of Nepal and MCC.
