Kathmandu, May 8: Dr. Bimal Prasad Koirala, Special Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Ms. Maxine Olsen Chief, Country Operation Division, Regional Bureau for Asia and Pacific, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) jointly inaugurated Bhutkhola Micro Hydro Demonstration Scheme established in Piughar, Deurali VDC, Tanahun amidst a ceremony held on Sunday.

The 12 kilowatt plant was installed with the assistance from Rural Energy Development Programme (REDP) a joint initiative of His Majesty’s Government of Nepal and UNDP. The scheme serves 53 households of the village.

The plant commissioned since 31st December 1998 was established with the cost of Rs 1,201,202 excluding the local labour and raw materials. The cost has met through subsidy from HMG/N, loan from ADB/N, DDC and VDC contribution and REDP assistance.

On the occasion, Dr. Koirala and Ms. Olsen observed different income generating works initiated by the villagers. With the initiation of REDP community mobilization process in the village, lifestyle of people of Piughar have changed drastically, the REDP statement said.

Altogether, 6 community organizations (COs) have been formed in the village including 3 female COs. On the basis of discussions in the weekly meetings, the community members undertake different development works. The community members are engaged in activities such as renovation of old trails and construction of new trails, toilets, renovation of community tap, keeping their surroundings clean, etc.

Beside implementing various development efforts, the community members are actively participating in different income-generating activities such as agro-processing, poultry farming, hotel business, pig rearing, and lighting the community members have also established a fish pond using the water from the tailrace of the micro hydro.