Strategic IPPAN & DHM MoU: Nepal Hydropower Early Warning System for Flood & Landslide Mitigation
21st May 2025, Kathmandu
A major step has been taken to shield Nepal’s hydropower sector from natural disasters. The Independent Power Producers’ Association Nepal (IPPAN) and the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement focuses on creating an early warning system to reduce damage caused by floods and landslides.
Strategic IPPAN DHM MoU
Signing Held on National Monsoon Day
The MoU was signed in Kathmandu on National Monsoon Day. Energy Minister Deepak Khadka attended the event. Secretaries Suresh Acharya and Sarita Dawadi also joined. Kamalram Joshi, Director General of DHM, signed on behalf of the department. IPPAN President Ganesh Karki represented the private sector.
Other IPPAN representatives included General Secretary Balram Khatri, Executive Member Mithun Paudel, Advisor Krishna Prasad Bhandari, and CEO Bhim Gautam. Their presence showed the private sector’s commitment to disaster preparedness.
Frequent Disasters Impact Hydropower
Hydropower projects in Nepal often face natural disasters. Floods and landslides have disrupted electricity generation and damaged vital infrastructure. Some events have caused financial losses and even endangered lives. A flood last year, just 28 kilometers from Kathmandu, affected a nearby power project.
Minister Khadka called the MoU a milestone for the energy sector. He said even if project costs rise slightly due to the system, the benefits will outweigh the costs.
Purpose of the Agreement
The MoU aims to set up a reliable early warning system. This system will monitor rainfall, river levels, and potential hazards. Hydropower operators will receive alerts when danger increases.
Director General Kamalram Joshi said the agreement will connect private sector warning systems with DHM’s national data network. This will improve access to real-time data on rain, floods, and landslides.
IPPAN President Ganesh Karki believes this system will lower the damage and reduce insurance claims. He said such tools are essential to protect projects and communities.
Technical Details of the Warning System
The agreement includes technical cooperation between DHM and IPPAN. DHM will provide real-time data during the monsoon period, from mid-May to mid-October. The data includes rainfall and river water levels from various river basins.
DHM will deliver the data via Application Programming Interface (API) and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) links. Three-day weather forecasts—or longer forecasts when possible—will also be shared.
In return, IPPAN’s projects will share their early warning data with DHM. All future equipment must meet DHM standards. Forecasting data must stay confidential and be used only for safety and planning.
Valid for Five Years
The MoU will remain in effect for five years. Each party will appoint a representative to oversee the agreement. If needed, both sides can extend or cancel the agreement. Any changes require approval from the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation.
After each monsoon season, IPPAN must submit a report to DHM and the ministry. The report will help track the system’s effectiveness.
Faster Responses Through Data Sharing
The core of this partnership is data sharing. In the past, delays in exchanging information slowed emergency responses. The new system aims to solve that problem. Real-time updates will help both parties act quickly during a crisis.
Secretary Suresh Acharya emphasized that faster communication will lower project damage. Secretary Sarita Dawadi called the MoU a historic move. Dr. RP Bichha from the National Planning Commission said this partnership could lead to more government-private collaborations.
Technology and Awareness Will Save Lives
President Ganesh Karki stressed the role of technology. He said that some systems can provide alerts up to seven days in advance. Even a single day’s notice can save lives and infrastructure.
He added that early warning systems help reduce the financial strain from disaster-related damages. Insurers will have fewer claims, and power producers can avoid major setbacks.
Benefits for Local Communities and Power Plants
The early warning system will not just protect power infrastructure. It will also help residents living near hydropower sites. Alerts will allow timely evacuations and safety measures.
This system improves decision-making during emergencies. It lowers risks, saves money, and protects lives. Both the private and public sectors will benefit.
A Model for Other Industries
The MoU could guide other sectors vulnerable to climate change. Industries like agriculture, tourism, and transportation can also adopt similar systems. Early warnings and data sharing are useful for all sectors exposed to natural disasters.
As extreme weather becomes more common in Nepal, partnerships like this are crucial. Public-private cooperation will boost the country’s readiness.
Next Steps: Implementation and Training
Bringing the system into full operation will need investment. Both sides must upgrade equipment and train staff. They will also need to raise awareness in the community.
Despite challenges, the future looks promising. Safer hydropower plants mean more reliable power. Protected communities mean fewer casualties. The economic benefits will follow.
IPPAN’s Role and Future Plans
IPPAN plans to work closely with DHM to roll out the system across its member projects. President Karki said, “Our members are ready to act. We want to build a safer energy future for Nepal.”
The association will also promote knowledge sharing. It will encourage its members to adopt global best practices for disaster risk reduction.
Conclusion: A Safer Path Ahead
The MoU between IPPAN and DHM is a major advancement in Nepal’s disaster management efforts. It brings together key players from the private and public sectors. The focus is on early warning, data exchange, and shared responsibility.
Minister Khadka called it a turning point for the energy sector. With strong cooperation, the system will protect people, projects, and investments. It also sets a valuable example for other sectors facing climate-related threats.
For more: Strategic IPPAN DHM MoU
