SATV, Kathmandu, October 11- The massive flood in the Budhi Gandaki River has caused damage to four hydropower projects, according to preliminary reports, affecting construction camps, equipment, Bailey bridges, access roads and bridges leading to project sites.

The 341-megawatt Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project appears to be the worst affected. The project, promoted by Times Energy Pvt. Ltd., has reportedly lost its main construction camp, while some construction equipment was also swept away by the floodwaters.

The 24.5-megawatt Dobhan Khola Hydropower Project has also sustained damage. Several buildings in the project's camp area were affected, and a Bailey bridge associated with the project was swept away. The project is promoted by Dobhan Khola Hydropower Limited.

Similarly, the 30.91-megawatt Yaru Khola Hydropower Project, promoted by Yaru Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd., has suffered damage to its Bailey bridge. Construction materials and equipment were also reportedly swept away by the flood.

The 16-megawatt Machha Khola Hydropower Project has sustained damage to its access road and the bridge leading to the project site. The project, promoted by Water Energy Development Pvt. Ltd., could face disruptions to construction activities and access to the site as a result of the damage.

The extent of the damage at all four projects remains preliminary. Details regarding the total financial losses, the impact on construction schedules and the time required for repairs and reconstruction have not yet been disclosed.

The damage to the hydropower projects adds to the wider destruction caused by the Budhi Gandaki flood, which has also affected bridges, roads, houses and other infrastructure in the downstream areas of Gorkha and neighbouring districts.

Further assessments will be needed to determine the full impact on the projects and their construction timelines.