Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Projectकिमाथान्का अरुण जलविद्युत आयोजना
A 454 MW semi-reservoir project on the upper Arun River at Kimathanka, Bhotkhola, Sankhuwasabha, about 3.7 km from the China border. A domestic-capital investment modality has been prepared (70:30 debt-equity, with GoN, NEA, EPF, Nepal Telecom, CIT and HIDCL as promoters). Land compensation began in 2026, but physical construction has not yet started.
Installed capacity
454 MW
Reservoir
River / basin
Arun
Koshi basin
Location
Sankhuwasabha
Koshi
Expected online
2031
Proposed / under development
Milestones & projected timeline
Key dates so far, with planned milestones marked. Future dates are targets from the developer or government and frequently shift.
- 2024–25
Domestic investment modality prepared (Rs 97.94 billion)
- 2026
Compensation distribution to affected landowners begins
- 2030–31Planned
Targeted completion
Location
Approximate dam-area location on OpenStreetMap — precise to the district and river reach, not the exact structure.
Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project: key facts
Quick answers on capacity, river, developer, status and commissioning, drawn from the sourced data above.
What is the capacity of the Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project?+
The Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project has an installed capacity of 454 MW. It is a reservoir hydropower scheme.
Which river is the Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project on?+
The project is on the Arun River, part of Nepal's Koshi basin, in Sankhuwasabha district, Koshi Province.
Who is developing the Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project?+
The Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project is developed by Vidhyut Utpadan Company Ltd (VUCL) (nea subsidiary), with Domestic capital (GoN, NEA, EPF, Nepal Telecom, CIT, HIDCL).
What is the status of the Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project?+
As of mid-2026 the project is proposed / under development. Semi-reservoir; domestic investment modality prepared; compensation distribution started 2026; construction not started
When is the Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project expected to be commissioned?+
The Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project is expected to be commissioned around 2031, though dates for projects under development frequently shift.
Sources & data note
Figures for Kimathanka Arun Hydroelectric Project are compiled from the sources below and cross-checked where possible. Status and projected dates reflect research as of mid-2026 and may change as the project progresses. The map location is an approximate dam-area estimate. Commentary is Amarnepal's own.