Nepal, March 18 -- Development of large hydropower projects in Nepal has long faced criticism for marginalising local communities, particularly those living in project-affected areas. Despite this, the Upper Trishuli-1 Hydroelectric Project (216 MW) offers a noticeably different-narrative-one that places indigenous rights, consent, and community-led development activities at the center of hydropower development.

Nepal Water and Energy Development Company Pvt. Ltd. (NWEDC) is developing the 216-megawatt Upper Trishuli-1 project about 80 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu on the Trishuli River. The project is designed as a run-of-river scheme. It includes a 29.5 metre high dam, a 9.5-kilometre headrace tunnel, and an underground powerhouse....