Kathmandu, Aug. 24 -- The Nepal Electricity Authority has received clearance to chop down 38,545 trees on the route of the planned Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Duhabi transmission line in Rautahat and Bara districts.

Following the Cabinet's go-ahead, the project office has moved to mobilise workers to expedite the construction of the much-delayed multimillion-dollar power line.

"We will clear a path through community and national forests for the power line as soon as the Forest Ministry and regional offices grant a written permit," said Shyam Kumar Yadav, project chief.

Despite receiving approval in Rautahat and Bara, the project, which has reported 70 percent physical progress till date, is yet to obtain easement rights in Makwanpur and Sarlahi ...