POKHARA: The one-megawatt Phewa Power House in Birauta has remained shut for three months.

Badri Prasad Phuyal, manager, Phewa-Seti Hydro project, said, “The power station has been shut as the water was diverted for irrigation in the area.” The closure has left six staffers without work.

Staffer Dilliram Lamichhane hoped the power station would come into operation once paddy planting was over in Birauta and Mahatgauda villages.

Pundari Baral, chairman, Phewa Water Irrigation System Users’ Committee, said, “We cannot let go of water until we finish the plantation.”