TuPIN: Looking Five Years Back and Forward

The Tunneling Process Innovation in Nepal (TuPIN) initiative, launched on November 12, 2016, began with informal discussions and formalized collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on January 7, 2017. This collaboration involves Knowledge Holding International (KHInt), the Nepal Tunneling Association (NTA), the Independent Power Producers Association of Nepal (IPPAN), and the Youth Community for Nepalese Contractors (YCNC), with special advisory from Er. Shiv Kumar Basnet. TuPIN aims to advance hydropower development in Nepal by enhancing tunneling processes and promoting innovative construction methods.

TuPIN focuses on leveraging innovative techniques in tunnel construction to support the development of hydropower projects in Nepal. This includes utilizing advanced equipment, such as Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM), more effectively to achieve economies of scale. The initiative's approach was highlighted in technical documents presented at the Nepal Infrastructure Summit in February 2017 and cited in the Nepal Infrastructure 2030 report. The concept gained further recognition at events such as the Himalayan Hydro Expo 2018 and the NTA Annual General Meeting in 2017.

In March 2019, the International Tunneling Association (ITA) published guidelines on reusing TBMs, which align with TuPIN’s goals. The guidelines support the refurbishment of pre-used TBMs, allowing them to be employed in multiple projects with different specifications. An example of this practice is the TBM used for the Bheri-Babai diversion tunnel, which is being refurbished for the Sunkoshi Marin diversion tunnel. TuPIN's success in demonstrating this model suggests potential for widespread adoption and innovation in Nepal’s tunneling sector. The initiative is expected to inspire similar collaborative efforts and efficient use of high-cost construction equipment for future projects.

Note: This article is from Nepal Infrastructure Summit 2022 Souvenir, for more information visit our page: https://nepalinfrastructuresummit.com.np/blog/tupin-looking-five-years-back-and-forward