The Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Plant (MHEP) received the Brunel Medal 2020 for excellence in civil engineering and valuable service or achievement. On Thursday, the Indian Ambassador to Bhutan handed over the award to economic affairs minister Loknath Sharma, the chairman of the MHEP.
The Institution of Civil Engineers of the United Kingdom presents the medal every year to those within the civil engineering industry. It is the first time that a hydropower plant in the country is receiving the award.
The economic affairs minister said it took seven years to complete the 720 MW project. “It has proved beneficial for us.”
Since its commissioning in 2019, the MHEP generated revenue of Nu 20.5bn, according to the minister. It is a joint venture between the governments of Bhutan and India.
The Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, Ruchira Kamboj, said the award would accelerate hydropower development between the two countries. She added the project is an engineering marvel between two countries that work very closely.
“Currently, we are undertaking three more hydro projects in Bhutan. So, the road looks good.”
Bhutan and India share exemplary hydropower cooperation, which started with the construction of the Chhukha hydropower project and is now spread over seven hydroelectric projects.
Kelzang Choden,
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
