In Dhaulagiri Gaunpalika-4, Nauras, a new suspension bridge has been installed over the Magdi River. This bridge, part of the ongoing hydroelectric projects, has significantly improved accessibility for residents, trekkers heading to Dhaulagiri, and tourists exploring the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
The 47-meter-long suspension bridge was installed by the Magdi Khola Hydroelectric Project, a 65-megawatt capacity initiative promoted by Hydro Village, and the Upper Magdi Khola Hydroelectric Project, a 37-megawatt capacity venture by Hydro Empire. Dhaulagiri Gaunpalika Chairperson Prem Prasad Pun highlighted that the bridge has facilitated transportation to the construction sites of these hydroelectric projects and eased travel for residents in geographically challenging areas such as Nauras, Bagar, Simkos, Khivang, and Khamla.
The ongoing hydroelectric projects on the Magdi River, including the Magdi Khola, Upper Magdi, and Upper Magdi-1 projects, have also developed approximately 16 kilometers of access roads from Shivratri Khola in Malika Gaunpalika to areas near Bagar Gaon. The Magdi Khola Hydroelectric Project aims to extend the road to Bagar Gaon by the end of the monsoon season. Additionally, the hydroelectric projects have facilitated the construction of a three-kilometer road connecting Khivang, home to 80 households, from Kengki in Dhaulagiri Gaunpalika-4.
With the initiation of the Dadakhet Substation and transmission line construction by the Nepal Electricity Authority, promoters have become more active in their projects. According to the Department of Electricity Development, there are 13 hydroelectric projects, totaling 238.23 megawatts, either under construction or in the development phase along the Magdi River and its tributaries in Dhaulagiri Gaunpalika.
The infrastructure development associated with these hydroelectric projects is expected to bring multiple benefits, including improved transportation, enhanced public facilities, job opportunities, and investment prospects. Dhaulagiri Gaunpalika Vice Chairperson Resham Pun Magar noted that the projects will also generate long-term revenue for the village through electricity royalties.
