Status of Hydropower Plants as of 6:00 PM

October 9, 2025
Update: Status of Hydropower Plants as of 6:00 PM
The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR) would like to update the general public on the operation of hydropower plants as of 9 October 2025:
As of 6:00PM on October 9, 2025, the operational status of the hydropower plants is as follows:
1. Tala Hydropower Project: Dam overtopping continues. The two radial gates, which had been opened partially appear to be obstructed by silt and debris as the reservoir level is not falling even with the inflow gradually decreasing (approximately 175 cumecs at Chhukha dam). Of the six generating units, five units are being operated through careful monitoring to ensure there is no choking of the intakes at the dam with the other unit on standby. Two excavators have been engaged to clear the logs and debris to make access to the dam top and Gate Operating Chambers (GoC) for Silt Flushing Tunnel (SFT). On getting access to the dam top, an assessment of the power pack and hydraulic cylinders of the hoisting mechanism for the radial gates will be made. Experts for the power pack and hydraulic cylinders for the radial gates are being mobilized.
2. Mangdechhu Hydropower Project: Operating at full capacity under close monitoring.
3. Nikachhu Hydropower Project: Operating at full capacity under close monitoring.
4. Basochhu Hydropower Project: Operating at full capacity under close monitoring.
5. Suchhu Small Hydropower Project: A section of Head Race Pipe and access roads have been damaged. Torrential rains have eroded backfill materials thus exposing sections of the penstock pipe. Workforce, materials and machines are being mobilized to carry out the repair works.
6. Dagachhu Hydropower Project: Resumed operation at full capacity at 6.10 PM on October 6, 2025. However, the plant took an emergency shutdown at 10.27 AM this morning for assessment of the Head Race Conduit (HRC).
7. Kurichhu Hydropower Project: Operating at full capacity under close monitoring.
8. Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project: Resumed operation from 10.34 AM on October 8, 2025. Currently, five units are under operation and one unit under maintenance.
9. Chhukha Hydropower Project: Operating at full capacity under close monitoring.
The Ministry, in close coordination with Druk Green Power Corporation Limited, Bhutan Power Corporation Limited, Hydropower plants, NCHM and Bhutan Power System Operator, continues to monitor the restoration and operation.