The landscape of transportation in Nepal is experiencing a groundbreaking transformation, reflected prominently in the decision of many taxi drivers to switch from traditional fossil fuel vehicles to electric ones. This shift from petrol to electric vehicles (EVs) was something unthinkable only a decade ago, when power outages plagued daily life in the Himalayan nation. As Surendra Parajuli, a taxi driver, shares his experience with AFP, the decision to invest in a Chinese-made battery electric cab like the BYD Atto 3 has proven economically beneficial. With a driving range of approximately 300 kilometers on a single charge and operating costs much lower than petrol, Parajuli embodies the potential for significant savings that EVs offer to Nepali drivers.

Kathmandu—long notorious for its congested streets filled with aging vehicles—is increasingly becoming a hub for electric vehicles. Official estimates indicate that over 40,000 EVs are now operational across Nepal, albeit still just a small fraction of the total 6.2 million vehicles in use. This demand is soaring; more than 25% of electric vehicles in the entire population were imported in the year leading up to July, signifying a nearly threefold increase from the previous year. The drastic rise in EV adoption correlates with the transformative energy landscape, as hydropower—a resource that represents around 99% of Nepal’s electricity—has become both plentiful and affordable due to significant investments in dam construction.

The shift toward electric vehicles is underscored by the substantial advancements made in Nepal’s energy sector, especially since the year 2000 when only a small fraction of the population had access to electricity. Today, around 95% of Nepalese citizens benefit from energy supply, allowing greater economic participation and mobility. According to Kulman Ghising of the Nepal Electricity Authority, this electricity availability fosters conditions favorable for adopting electric vehicles, enabling them to serve as a viable alternative to petrol-powered cars. Hydropower storage capacity is anticipated to grow drastically, with plans to increase from the current 3,200 megawatts to 30,000 megawatts over the coming decade.

While the potential for EVs presents an optimistic outlook, there are valid concerns regarding the environmental implications of hydropower expansion. Nepal’s rapid growth in electricity production raises questions about the sustainability of new dam projects, especially since campaigners have voiced worries over the impact on sensitive ecosystems. The government’s recent policy changes, which allow for the construction of dams in previously protected zones, threaten to disrupt wildlife habitats and natural landscapes. Furthermore, climate change exacerbates the risks of floods and landslides that could jeopardize these hydropower projects.

Electric vehicles in Nepal are lauded for their low emissions, which aligns with the country’s ambitions of achieving a net-zero greenhouse gas footprint by 2045. However, the transition to electric mobility also introduces significant challenges, particularly regarding electronic waste management. The disposal of lithium-ion batteries poses a substantial environmental threat due to the hazardous materials they contain. Advocates like Nabin Bikash Maharjan from Blue Waste to Value emphasize the urgent need for a forward-thinking waste management strategy tailored to address this emerging issue.

The shift towards electric vehicles amid a revitalized energy landscape exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of Nepalese society. As the trend escalates, the promise of financial benefits for individuals like Surendra Parajuli should not overshadow the broader environmental duties that come with such a major transition.

While significant strides have been made in energy access and vehicle electrification, the path forward must be navigated responsibly, with attention to the ecological impacts of dam constructions and a comprehensive framework for dealing with electronic waste. To ensure a sustainable and prosperous future, Nepal must align its ambitions for economic growth with environmental stewardship—a balance that could serve as a powerful model for nations undergoing similar transformative efforts.

Technology

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