Matatirtha–Chobhar 132 kV Transmission Line Set to Strengthen Kathmandu Power Supply

The Matatirtha–Chobhar 132 kV transmission line has been completed as part of the Thankot–Chapagaun–Bhaktapur transmission line project, which aims to strengthen the electricity supply system in Kathmandu Valley. The approximately 6-kilometer line from Matatirtha Substation to Chobhar Substation will be charged from Friday and connected to the national transmission system, providing an additional route for electricity supply. According to Nepal Electricity Authority Executive Director Dirghayu Kumar Shrestha, the operation of the transmission line and Chobhar Substation will make it easier to balance electricity demand and supply in Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas. The Chobhar Substation has nine 11 kV feeders that will supply areas including Kirtipur, Pharping, Pulchowk, and Ekantakuna, helping improve voltage and overall reliability and quality of electricity supply. The project was initiated to develop a 132 kV transmission ring structure covering Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. Construction of the Lalitpur section was affected by local opposition in Khokana, Bungamati, Harisiddhi, and Lamatar, prompting the development of Chobhar Substation as an alternative. Meanwhile, construction of an approximately 4.5-km underground 132 kV line from Chobhar to Lagankhel (Patan) is underway, along with the upgrading of Patan Substation to 132 kV. The Thankot–Chapagaun–Bhaktapur project was launched in FY 2055/56 with investment from the Government of Nepal and the Nepal Electricity Authority. While the transmission lines toward Kathmandu and Bhaktapur have been completed, continued local opposition has prevented completion of the Lalitpur section, delaying the full operation of the valley’s planned 132 kV transmission ring.