The hydropower sector in Nepal has experienced significant growth since its inception in 1911, with current installed capacity reaching 2828.99 MW. However, pre-monsoon floods pose substantial challenges to hydropower development, particularly affecting project construction and management. Climate change has intensified these challenges, leading to increased frequency and unpredictability of extreme weather events during the pre-monsoon period (March-Early June). In the Sankhuwasabha district of eastern Nepal, pre-monsoon floods have caused severe damage to hydropower infrastructure, with recent events in 2023 affecting 13 projects with a combined capacity of 150 MW. The Super Hewa Khola Hydroelectric Project alone sustained losses exceeding NPR 220 million. Despite the growing recognition of these impacts, there is limited targeted research on the implications for hydropower projects, creating a significant knowledge gap in understanding and addressing these challenges. This study aims to examine the impacts of pre-monsoon floods on hydropower construction management in Sankhuwasabha district, with specific objectives to: identify challenges presented by pre-monsoon floods, explore current management practices, and determine possible remedial measures for addressing these challenges in hydropower projects. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection through questionnaire surveys and key informant interviews. The study focused on seven hydropower projects across three watersheds (Piluwa, Hewa, and Sankhuwa khola) in Sankhuwasabha district, with 49 stakeholders participating in the survey. Data analysis utilized Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to evaluate the significance of various factors. Through a comprehensive qualitative investigation, the study examined the multifaceted challenges faced by hydropower projects during pre-monsoon seasons. Key findings revealed three primary areas of impact: construction delays and cost overruns, safety concerns, and infrastructure damage. The research examined construction delays, cost viii implications, and safety concerns. Chi-square analysis (p> 0.05) confirmed that pre- monsoon floods does not causes substantial delays and cost overruns in hydropower projects. Despite statistical findings, qualitative insights reveal stakeholders perceive pre- monsoon floods as critical challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive risk assessments that integrate both quantitative and qualitative data. The study found construction delays ranging from 2-4 weeks for contractors (42.9%) to over two months for clients (75%), with cost overruns predominantly in the 6-10% range across stakeholders (71.4% contractors, 50% consultants, 40% clients). Stakeholder interviews and site assessments highlighted significant disruptions, with projects experiencing substantial timeline extensions and financial implications. Safety emerged as a critical concern, particularly regarding landslides and flash floods that threatened both personnel and infrastructure. The study identified advanced weather forecasting, enhanced watershed management, and improved flood-resistant construction techniques as key remedial measures. Stakeholders strongly endorsed the integration of climate change strategies, with 85.7% of contractors recommending a 6-10% budget increase for implementing additional flood resilience measures. The effectiveness of current management practices varied significantly among stakeholders, with RII values ranging from 0.54 to 0.61, indicating substantial room for improvement. The study recommends a combining advanced weather forecasting, enhanced watershed management, improved flood-resistant construction techniques, and climate change adaptation strategies. By providing insights into the complex challenges of pre-monsoon floods, this research offers valuable guidance for project managers, policymakers, and stakeholders in the hydropower sector. The research serves as a critical resource for understanding and mitigating flood-related risks in hydropower construction.

Keywords

Pre-monsoon floods, Challenges, Management practices, Remedial measure,Sankhuwasabha district

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