Executive Summary

This report presents a comprehensive documentation of the planning, design, implementation, and performance evaluation of the 200-unit Solar Street Lighting Project deployed across key zones of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Nepal, in 2022. The project focuses specifically on three rapidly expanding and socially significant wards—Ward 6, Ward 5, and Ward 8—with special emphasis on accessibility improvements surrounding Shree Jana Priya Secondary School in Ward 6. Completed under the supervision of my engineering team, and with direct involvement from local authorities and community bodies, the project aims to enhance public safety, strengthen nighttime mobility, and promote sustainable infrastructure practices in a region characterized by frequent grid instability and challenging monsoon seasons.

Pokhara, despite its status as one of Nepal’s primary tourism hubs, retains large pockets of underdeveloped secondary roads, pedestrian corridors, and community spaces where insufficient lighting poses safety and operational concerns. The municipality identified that approximately 18–30 hours of monthly power outages occur during monsoon months. Traditional sodium-vapor lamps in several communities had become obsolete, while grid expansion was limited by high terrain complexity and budget constraints. These combined factors produced extended dark zones—particularly in school access pathways, hillside residential lanes, and commercial alleys—creating risks for students, residents, and nighttime vendors.

The deployed solution consists of 200 split-type solar street lights, each equipped with a 75W high-efficiency LED fixture, a 150W monocrystalline solar module, a 12.8V / 54Ah LiFePO₄ battery, and intelligent MPPT charging controllers. All units were mounted on 8-meter hot-dip galvanized steel poles, with individual foundations engineered to withstand Pokhara’s maximum recorded wind speeds (18 m/s) and heavy rainfall load (3,900+ mm annually). The system was sized to maintain ≥ 3.5 days of autonomy during low-sunlight periods, guaranteeing reliable performance across all seasons.

The project followed an integrated engineering approach combining international lighting standards—such as IESNA RP-8 and CIE 115—with Nepalese municipal construction norms, field-driven data from on-site assessments, and solar irradiation data validated from regional sources. Technical design considerations included solar access analysis, terrain-induced shading studies, geotechnical evaluation of pole foundation requirements, structural loading checks, optical distribution simulation, and street-level illuminance modeling across varied urban textures.

A significant portion of the installation effort centered around the Shree Jana Priya Secondary School zone, where morning and evening student movement intersected with unlit slopes and stairways. As a first-person engineering note, I recall one of my early site walks with the school principal:

"Every monsoon season," he said, "we worry the most for the younger children who have to walk the sloping western path while the sky grows dark. Their world becomes invisible in seconds."

That moment captured not only the technical justification of the project but the social urgency behind it. It underlined the need for a lighting solution that could empower vulnerable road users and reduce preventable risks.

Beyond the school, other deployment nodes included the dense commercial pockets of Amar Singh Chowk in Ward 5, the internal residential stretches around Baidam Road in Ward 6, and the widely traveled tourism extensions along Lakeside Road in Ward 8. These areas required tailored lighting design strategies, considering their respective pedestrian traffic patterns, road widths, seasonal market expansions, and visual comfort requirements for tourists.

The implementation process followed internationally aligned construction management and HSE practices, including detailed site preparation, standardized pole foundation casting (600 × 600 × 800 mm, C30 grade), precision-based component assembly, torque-calibrated structural fastening, and sequential installation workflows. A multi-stage commissioning protocol—encompassing hardware inspection, photometric validation, and district-wide synchronization tests—ensured that the systems met all technical performance benchmarks.

Third-party inspection teams from the municipality validated the installation quality, and within six months of operation, the project delivered measurable improvements:

• Nighttime pedestrian volume increased by 34% across key corridors
• Evening academic and extracurricular activities at Shree Jana Priya Secondary School increased by 52%
• Minor nighttime accidents in Ward 6 and Ward 5 reduced to 25% of previous levels
• Tourism-related foot traffic in Ward 8 recorded consistent nighttime flow
• New micro-vendors (18 in total) appeared in previously unlit areas, demonstrating direct economic benefit

From a long-term sustainability perspective, the solar-based architecture eliminates operational electricity costs and significantly reduces maintenance frequency compared to traditional lighting systems. The LiFePO₄ battery chemistry chosen for this deployment offers stable performance under Pokhara’s fluctuating temperatures and extended lifespan with minimal degradation.

This Executive Summary encapsulates the multi-dimensional nature of the project:

• Its technical depth aligned with international engineering standards
• Its community-centered impact, directly benefiting students, residents, and local commerce
• Its operational sustainability, promoting climate-resilient infrastructure development
• And its engineering authenticity, grounded in real-world constraints and on-the-ground experience

The subsequent sections of this report expand on these themes in detail, presenting a full analysis of contextual drivers, engineering methodologies, construction workflows, performance measurements, and long-term lessons. The project stands as a replicable model for municipalities across Nepal seeking cost-effective, resilient, and socially impactful public lighting solutions.

1. Context & Stakeholder Analysis

1.1 Regional Context and Infrastructure Landscape

Pokhara Metropolitan City—located in Nepal’s Gandaki Province—is internationally recognized for its scenic geography, tourism economy, and fast-growing urban footprint. Yet despite its high-profile commercial growth, the city continues to face infrastructural gaps in numerous semi-urban and peri-urban wards, particularly in areas where road geometry, historical settlement patterns, and municipal budget limitations converge to create uneven access to essential public services. While major arterial roads such as Prithvi Highway, Lakeside–Khahare corridor, and Mahendrapul Street remain well illuminated, the same cannot be said for many secondary roads and school-adjacent pedestrian routes.

The three wards selected for this project—Ward 6, Ward 5, and Ward 8—exemplify these challenges in different forms:

• Ward 6 is a mixed residential and educational zone, home to Shree Jana Priya Secondary School and densely clustered hillside neighborhoods branching from Baidam Road.
• Ward 5 includes commercial hubs such as Amar Singh Chowk, where shopfront activities extend late into the evening but local lighting infrastructure remains outdated.
• Ward 8 serves as a tourism-heavy corridor connecting Lakeside Road to multiple pedestrian tracks leading toward Phewa Lake and its viewpoint zones.

These three wards were identified by the municipal office as priority intervention zones after a consolidated risk assessment highlighted persistent night visibility issues, rising foot traffic, and seasonal security concerns.

1.2 Urban Safety Challenges and Lighting Deficiency

Public lighting in Nepal is often concentrated around government buildings, main commercial arteries, and major transit nodes. Secondary and internal community roads are typically underserved due to several systemic constraints:

1. Unreliable grid access in hilly topologies, especially during the monsoon season where outages disrupt conventional lighting systems.
2. Legacy sodium lamps that are not only inefficient but also susceptible to failure under voltage fluctuations.
3. Narrow road geometry in older settlements that complicates utility pole installation, especially in areas where underground cables are absent or impractical.
4. Budgetary constraints restricting municipal authorities from expanding or upgrading grid-fed lighting infrastructure.
5. High pedestrian dependence, particularly around schools and local marketplaces, increasing risk exposure during nighttime hours.

In Ward 6, which encompasses Shree Jana Priya Secondary School, these issues converge sharply. The school is surrounded by slopes, stairs, and narrow pathways that see heavy usage by children from surrounding households. The absence of adequate lighting created not only mobility difficulties but also recurring safety concerns.

During my initial field visit, I personally walked the western slope leading to the school at approximately 6:40 PM. The sun had set behind the ridgeline, and visibility dropped abruptly. I remember feeling the uneven terrain beneath my boots. A group of younger students—carrying backpacks nearly as large as themselves—navigated the path with surprising familiarity, yet their silhouettes vanished almost completely in the shadows. A teacher accompanying them remarked quietly:

“When the power cuts out in the evening, they can barely see their own steps.”

This moment reinforced the human motivation behind the project and framed the technical interventions in a much broader social context.

1.3 Socioeconomic Significance of the Selected Wards

Ward 6 — Education and Community Connectivity

Ward 6 represents one of Pokhara’s most important mixed-use wards. In addition to hosting Shree Jana Priya Secondary School—which draws students from a wide catchment area—the ward includes numerous residential clusters built along hillside gradients. Safe nighttime mobility in these areas is essential not only for students but also for workers returning from Lakeside or the city center.

Community surveys conducted during early consultation revealed recurring themes:

• Parents expressed worry about children attending after-school events.
• Residents described routinely carrying flashlights or phone torches.
• Shop owners highlighted reduced evening foot traffic due to dimly lit lanes.

Lighting intervention in Ward 6 was therefore positioned as both a safety and social-development measure.

Ward 5 — Commercial Zone and Night Economy

Ward 5 covers the broader Amar Singh Chowk area, a commercial micro-hub containing retail shops, eateries, small workshops, and transport services. Economic activity here relies on a steady flow of evening customers.

However, lighting deficiencies affected:

• Evening customer retention
• Delivery and logistics movement
• Small street vendors selling food or handmade items
• Road safety on narrow commercial alleys

Local business groups reported that after 7:30 PM, foot traffic dropped sharply in poorly lit segments. The municipality identified that strengthening illumination here could directly support local livelihoods.

Ward 8 — Tourism and Pedestrian Movement

Ward 8 includes Lakeside Road extensions and several tourism-linked pedestrian routes. These walkways are extensively used not only by residents but by trekkers, guides, hotel staff, and domestic visitors.

Dark sections in Ward 8 created negative spillover effects:

• Tourists avoided certain connecting paths at night
• Local hotels received complaints from visitors
• Micro-vendors struggled to operate past sunset
• Incidents of minor injuries or stumbles were periodically reported in poorly lit areas

Given Pokhara’s dependence on tourism revenue, improving lighting in Ward 8 was deemed strategically significant.

1.4 Institutional Stakeholders

Pokhara Metropolitan City Office

The city government served as project owner and primary decision-making authority.
They established:

• Priority wards
• Deployment boundaries
• Technical compliance expectations
• Coordination with ward-level committees

The engineering team maintained direct communication with the municipal engineering department for approvals and inspection scheduling.

Ward-Level Committees

Ward chairs and committee members for Wards 5, 6, and 8 played a critical enabling role:

• Facilitating community communication
• Organizing access permissions
• Coordinating with school and business representatives
• Helping resolve installation constraints in congested zones

I found Ward 6 officials to be particularly engaged due to the presence of Shree Jana Priya Secondary School and associated child-safety concerns.

Shree Jana Priya Secondary School Administration

The school leadership was proactive and cooperative. They allowed:

• Full site access
• In-situ measurements across playground and access roads
• Adjustment of pole positions around high-traffic pedestrian routes

During a side meeting, the vice principal expressed a sentiment that resonated deeply with me:

“Light is not only about visibility. It gives our students confidence. They walk differently when the surroundings feel safe.”

This perspective complemented our technical objectives and strengthened justification for higher illumination levels near the school.

1.5 Community Stakeholders and User Groups

The project directly interacted with and benefited several community segments:

• Schoolchildren and educators
• Residential households in Ward 6
• Shopkeepers and street vendors in Ward 5
• Tourism workers, guides, and hotel staff in Ward 8
• Daily commuters, pedestrians, and small-vehicle operators

Community feedback during pre-design consultations influenced:

• Pole spacing
• Preferred illumination zones
• Avoidance of pole placement obstructing homes or shopfronts
• Nighttime dimming profile
• Locations where vandalism risk was reported

1.6 Summary of Stakeholder Interests

Stakeholder	Primary Interest	Secondary Benefit
Municipality	Public safety, infrastructure upgrade	Budget efficiency via solar
Ward Committees	Improved mobility, local development	Reduced community complaints
School Administration	Student safety & campus usability	Improved evening programs
Local Business Owners	Customer visibility	Extended business hours
Residents	Nighttime mobility	Security enhancement
Tourists	Safe walking routes	Improved local experience
Engineering Team	Technical performance	Community satisfaction

This multidimensional stakeholder landscape shaped many engineering decisions throughout the project lifecycle and is reflected in the subsequent design rationale.

2. Technical Design & Engineering Basis

2.1 Overview of the Engineering Approach

The technical design of the Pokhara Solar Street Lighting Project was shaped by a complex interplay of environmental, social, and infrastructure parameters unique to the region. While solar lighting systems are, in principle, modular and predictable, their long-term performance depends heavily on precise adaptation to local conditions. Thus, the engineering team adopted a design philosophy centered on four principles:

1. Environmental Compatibility
   The system must operate reliably under Pokhara’s monsoon climate, high humidity peaks, and terrain-dependent shading.
2. Functional Adequacy
   Illumination must meet practical stakeholder needs, including school safety, commercial visibility, and tourism mobility.
3. Structural Durability
   Poles and foundations must withstand seasonal winds, soil variations, and prolonged exposure to moisture.
4. Operational Sustainability
   Maintenance burden must be minimized, allowing the municipality to manage long-term operations with limited resources.

To achieve these standards, the design basis drew from a combination of international lighting codes, municipal construction norms, solar resource datasets, geotechnical observations, and human-centered site insights collected during field visits.

2.2 Environmental and Climatic Considerations

With an annual average GHI value of approximately 5.04 kWh/m²/day, Pokhara possesses favorable solar conditions for stand-alone lighting systems. However, the monsoon cycle (June to September) introduces significant challenges:

• Irradiance dips to as low as 4.26 kWh/m²/day in July
• Cloud cover intensifies daily variability
• Monthly rainfall can exceed 800 mm during peak season
• Relative humidity rises to 85%, increasing corrosion and wiring vulnerability

These factors necessitated conservative sizing of solar panels and batteries. The selected 150W monocrystalline panels were paired with 54Ah LiFePO₄ batteries, ensuring a minimum of 3.5 days of autonomy. This margin was critical to avoid blackout risks during extended storm sequences.

From a first-person engineering standpoint, I recall inspecting the school’s western wall after a night of heavy rainfall. The ground remained saturated for hours, and a thin layer of mist hovered around the slope. It was evident that any sub-standard battery or connector enclosure would degrade rapidly in such an environment. This observation reinforced the decision to use reinforced cable glands, high-grade enclosures, and pole-integrated battery housings.

2.3 Roadway Geometry and Lighting Requirements

Pokhara’s mixed urban fabric blends wide tourist boulevards with narrow hillside pathways. The following roadway typologies influenced illumination design:

• School access lanes (4.0–4.5 m)
• Residential connectors (3.5–5.0 m)
• Commercial alleys (4.0–6.0 m)
• Tourism pedestrian corridors (5.0–6.5 m)

International guidelines such as IESNA RP-8 and CIE 115 outline recommended illuminance levels for pedestrian-focused public lighting. For this project, the adopted targets were:

• ≥20 lux near school zones and main connectors
• ≥18 lux in residential streets
• ≥15–20 lux in commercial and mixed-use corridors

This informed both LED wattage and optical lens selection. The 75W LED heads used in this project integrate a Type III roadway distribution pattern with optimized lateral spread, allowing uniform light distribution across narrow-to-medium-width roads.

2.4 Solar Panel Orientation and Tilt Optimization

Due to Pokhara’s latitude (~28.2°N), the optimal fixed tilt angle for solar generation lies between 28° and 32°. Field tests confirmed that 32° offered:

• Higher monsoon-season resilience
• Improved late-afternoon energy harvesting
• Lower shading losses from nearby structures

All 200 units were installed facing true south, with orientation verified using compass alignment and location-adjusted declination offsets.

2.5 Battery Technology Selection

Battery reliability determines the long-term performance of any off-grid lighting system. The design process compared three chemistries:

Chemistry	Pros	Cons
VRLA/AGM	Low cost	Heavy, short lifespan, weak in cold climates
NMC Li-ion	High energy density	Degrades faster in high temps
LiFePO₄	Stable, long lifespan, safe, temperature-resistant	Higher upfront cost

LiFePO₄ was selected due to:

• High cycle life (>2,000 cycles at 80% DoD)
• Superior temperature tolerance
• Stable performance under monsoon humidity
• Improved safety profile for school environments

Furthermore, batteries were mounted inside the pole, rather than on the exterior, reducing thermal stress and theft risk.

2.6 Foundation and Structural Load Basis

The structural design adhered to municipal norms and wind load calculations. The maximum considered wind speed for the project was 18 m/s, consistent with Pokhara's historical weather data.

The pole specifications:

• Height: 8 m
• Material: Q235 hot-dip galvanized steel
• Wall thickness: 4.5 mm
• Anti-corrosion treatment: ≥ 80 μm zinc coating

Foundation design parameters:

• Dimensions: 600 × 600 × 800 mm
• Concrete grade: C30
• Anchor bolt cage: 380 × 380 × 12 mm
• Minimum soil bearing pressure: 120 kN/m²

During a geotechnical walkover in Ward 8, I encountered areas where soil texture transitioned sharply—soft sandy soil in one segment, dense clay in another. Because of this variability, maintaining a standardized foundation was preferred over adaptive sizing. This ensured uniform construction workflows for the local crews and simplified quality control.

2.7 System Sizing and Electrical Logic

The decision to use a 75W LED head was based on:

• Required illuminance
• Mounting height
• Panel-battery compatibility
• System autonomy goals

Energy balance analysis:

• Average daily load: ~600–700 Wh
• Effective panel production: 550–820 Wh/day
• Battery storage: ~690 Wh usable (after DoD limit)

This aligns comfortably with Pokhara’s seasonal solar profile.

The MPPT controller was programmed for:

• Dusk activation
• Multi-stage dimming (100% → 70% → 40%)
• Early dawn brightness boost for school pathways

2.8 Material and Component Selection Criteria

Key criteria included:

• Corrosion resistance
• UV stability
• Vibration resistance
• Surge protection
• Cable quality (XLPE insulation)
• Stainless steel mounting hardware

These choices significantly increased long-term reliability in a climate prone to moisture and temperature cycling.

2.9 Rationale for Choosing Split-Type Solar Street Lights

Split-type systems were chosen instead of integrated all-in-one units due to:

• Higher panel surface area
• Better heat management
• Field-replaceable components
• Lower shading sensitivity
• Longer lifespan for battery and panel elements

Given Pokhara’s climatic profile, this architecture provided the best balance of performance and durability.

2.10 Summary of the Technical Basis

The engineering design reflects:

• Realistic adaptation to Pokhara’s terrain
• Compliance with global lighting standards
• Conservative but robust solar sizing
• Strong emphasis on safety and durability
• Direct response to community and stakeholder needs
• A hybrid analytical and field-informed design philosophy

This foundation prepared the groundwork for efficient and safe implementation, documented in the next chapter.

3. Implementation & Construction

3.1 Overview of the Construction Strategy

The implementation strategy for the Pokhara Solar Street Lighting Project was developed to ensure predictable timelines, standardized quality outcomes, and efficient use of local labor resources. Given the project’s geographical spread across Wards 6, 5, and 8—and the diversity of their road textures, traffic densities, and soil conditions—the construction plan emphasized phased deployment and decentralized coordination. This approach enabled simultaneous progress across multiple zones while reducing disruption to daily school operations, commercial activity, and tourism flows.

The overall strategy was built on four pillars:

1. Phased sequencing based on site readiness and accessibility
2. Localized task teams to accelerate parallel progress
3. Strict adherence to HSE protocols due to public-facing working environments
4. Continuous stakeholder communication, especially in school and marketplace zones

As implementation progressed, this structured yet adaptive model proved critical for maintaining momentum despite weather variability and high pedestrian densities.

3.2 Mobilization and Pre-Construction Activities

Before physical work commenced, the engineering team conducted a full mobilization exercise involving equipment verification, workforce orientation, and route planning for transporting materials. Transporting 8-meter poles, solar panels, concrete materials, and tools required careful coordination due to narrow internal roads in parts of Ward 6 and Ward 5.

Key mobilization steps included:

• Establishing a temporary storage yard near Amar Singh Chowk, chosen for its central access
• Delivering poles and solar panels in staggered batches to avoid congestion
• Conducting HSE training for all workers, including fall protection, electrical safety, and site behavior in school zones
• Mapping temporary pedestrian detours around work areas in school and tourist corridors
• Assigning a three-tier supervision system:
  • Lead engineer (myself)
  • Site supervisors for each ward
  • Quality control officer

During this stage, I personally walked every planned installation point in Ward 6 once again—this time not as a surveyor, but as the engineer responsible for execution. Many residents recognized me from earlier consultations and were eager to ask when the lights would finally illuminate their streets. Their anticipation underscored the importance of delivering the project with precision and reliability.

3.3 Workforce Structure and Responsibilities

A total of 27 personnel were deployed across three wards, organized into functional teams:

• Civil works team (8 workers) – foundation excavation, rebar placement, concrete mixing, anchor cage installation
• Pole erection team (7 workers) – handling 8-meter poles, lifting, vertical alignment
• Electrical installation team (6 workers) – solar modules, LED heads, controllers, wiring
• Logistics and transport team (4 workers) – material movement, on-site delivery
• QC/HSE officers (2 personnel) – compliance, inspections, safety audits

This workforce was complemented by municipal liaisons assisting in traffic management and public communication.

3.4 Foundation Construction Process

The construction of foundations for 200 poles formed the backbone of the installation effort. Each foundation followed the standardized dimension:

600 × 600 × 800 mm, C30 concrete, with 380 × 380 × 12 mm anchor bolt cage

3.4.1 Excavation

Excavation required non-uniform approaches depending on soil texture:

• Ward 6: Mostly silty clay; excavation was stable and predictable
• Ward 5: Mixed soils; occasional gravel required manual chiseling
• Ward 8: Sandy-silt mix; trenches required temporary bracing to prevent collapse

Excavation depth tolerance was maintained within ±10 mm.

3.4.2 Rebar and Anchor Cage Placement

Anchor cages were carefully centered using:

• Plumb lines
• Laser levels
• Wooden cross-jigs

Alignment error was kept below 8 mm, ensuring seamless bolt matching during pole installation.

3.4.3 Concrete Pouring

Concrete was mixed on-site due to constrained vehicle access in narrow lanes. Each foundation required approximately 0.288 m³ of concrete. Vibrators were used to eliminate voids, and curing was ensured for at least 48 hours before pole erection.

During construction near the school entrance, several students gathered to watch. One of them asked me, “Sir, will this light make the road bright even in the rain?” I smiled and assured him, “Yes, especially in the rain.” His expression captured the pure expectation behind this infrastructure effort.

3.5 Pole Installation

Pole installation required precision to ensure long-term structural stability and optimal lighting performance.

3.5.1 Handling and Positioning

The 8-meter poles, weighing around 62 kg, were manually maneuvered in constrained areas, particularly in Ward 6’s hillside roads. Mechanical lifting aids were used in Ward 5 and wider sections of Ward 8.

3.5.2 Vertical Alignment

Alignment was verified using:

• Two-direction spirit levels
• Laser markers
• Temporary rope support

Tilt tolerance was limited to ≤1.5°, ensuring accurate solar panel orientation and lighting distribution.

3.5.3 Bolt Tightening and Anti-Corrosion Measures

Anchor bolts were torqued to manufacturer specifications, after which:

• Anti-rust spray was applied
• Pole-base cavities were sealed
• Cable entry points were waterproofed

Given Pokhara’s monsoon exposure, these steps were essential to prevent long-term degradation.

3.6 Solar Panel and LED Head Installation

3.6.1 Panel Mounting

Solar modules were mounted at a fixed 32° tilt angle, facing true south. Fasteners used:

• Stainless steel M8 bolts
• 22 N·m torque standard

Each panel bracket was checked for vibration resistance, considering windy conditions common in valley corridors.

3.6.2 LED Head Installation

The 75W LED fixtures were installed on 1.2 m steel arms at an angle of approximately 13° downward tilt. This placement produced a uniform illumination spread across typical 4–6 m Nepalese streets.

3.7 Electrical Integration and Controller Programming

All electrical connections followed XLPE-insulated cabling routed through the pole interior. Controllers were configured with:

• Dusk-to-dawn activation
• Multi-stage dimming:
  • 100% brightness (first 4 hours)
  • 70% brightness (next 4 hours)
  • 40% before dawn, with a pre-dawn boost

This profile improved battery longevity and provided enhanced illumination during peak pedestrian periods.

I remember programming the first set of controllers at the school playground. Several children gathered around, trying to understand what the device was. One asked, “Is this the brain of the light?” I told him yes—and he immediately announced to his friends, “Sir is giving our lights a brain!” Their fascination made the technical work feel more meaningful.

3.8 Construction in High-Traffic or Sensitive Zones

3.8.1 School Zone (Ward 6)

Construction near Shree Jana Priya Secondary School required careful planning:

• Work restricted to non-class hours
• Temporary barriers installed
• Teachers informed daily of progress
• No open trenches left unattended

3.8.2 Commercial Zone (Ward 5)

Amar Singh Chowk presented challenges:

• Restricted pole delivery due to constant vehicle movement
• Merchants requested minimal disruption to storefront access
• Dust control measures implemented during concrete mixing

3.8.3 Tourism Zone (Ward 8)

Lakeside Road extensions required:

• Boarding direction signs for tourists
• Spotters to manage pedestrian flow
• Noise control measures during early evenings

3.9 Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Management

A dedicated HSE officer monitored:

• PPE compliance
• Excavation safety
• Electrical hazards
• Public interface risks
• Weather-related stoppages

Rain and wet soil conditions occasionally halted work, but the team maintained progress through flexible scheduling.

3.10 Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA/QC)

QC procedures included:

• Foundation depth verification
• Concrete strength tests
• Bolt torque checks
• Panel tilt-angle verification
• LED performance testing

A centralized logbook documented compliance for all 200 units.

3.11 Completion of Construction Activities

Construction spanned 32 active working days, excluding rain delays. By the end:

• 200 foundations were cast
• 200 poles erected
• 200 solar modules installed
• 200 LED heads fixed
• 200 controllers configured

The system was then prepared for full commissioning, documented in the next chapter.

4. Commissioning & Performance Assessment

4.1 Commissioning Strategy and Objectives

Commissioning marked the transition from construction to operational readiness, designed to validate the technical performance, safety, and reliability of all 200 solar street lighting units. The commissioning strategy prioritized:

• Ensuring full functional compliance with the engineering design
• Validating optical output and illumination uniformity
• Verifying charging efficiency and battery health
• Conducting environmental resilience checks
• Confirming safe integration within public spaces

Commissioning activities were deliberately scheduled during evening hours to test real-world lighting conditions across all targeted routes, including school zones, commercial corridors, and tourism pathways.

The overarching objective was not merely to “switch on the lights,” but to prove—through measurable, repeatable testing—that the system operated precisely as designed and delivered tangible safety improvements for the community.

4.2 Multi-Stage Testing Protocol

A structured three-tier protocol was used:

1. Hardware Verification – confirming mechanical and electrical integrity
2. Photometric Assessment – measuring real-time illumination performance
3. Full-Area Synchronization Test – validating simultaneous system operation

This model reflects international commissioning best practices and was adapted to Pokhara’s environmental conditions.

4.3 Stage 1: Hardware Verification

Hardware testing began with pole-by-pole inspection. Each unit underwent:

• Panel output measurement using multimeters
• Controller response testing (dusk simulation)
• LED fixture stability check
• Waterproofing inspection for cable glands and access hatches
• Battery voltage and terminal health verification
• Structural fastening torque testing

A comprehensive checklist was assigned to each unit, and the QC officer documented every pass/fail result. Out of 200 units, only two required minor corrective work—both involving recalibration of panel angle brackets loosened during transport vibrations.

During the verification of several lights near Shree Jana Priya Secondary School, I noticed students gathering at a distance, whispering to each other as we tested the LED fixtures. One child asked, “Sir, will they all turn on together at night?”
I replied, “Yes, that’s exactly what we’re preparing for.”
His smile captured the spirit of community anticipation behind this technical process.

4.4 Stage 2: Photometric Assessment

Photometric validation was conducted after dusk over multiple nights to ensure consistent results across varying atmospheric conditions. Using calibrated lux meters, measurements were taken at road centerlines, pedestrian paths, and standard offsets.

4.4.1 Measured Illumination Values

• Road centerline (average): 22.4 lux
• 3-meter lateral offset: 12.8 lux
• Uniformity ratio: 0.41
• Glare index: Within acceptable limits for pedestrian pathways

These values surpass typical municipal lighting thresholds in Nepal and meet international pedestrian-roadway standards for safety and visibility.

4.4.2 Shadows and Obstructions

Particular attention was given to:

• Trees along Lakeside pathways
• Boundary walls near the school’s northern gate
• Commercial signboards in Amar Singh Chowk

Minor adjustments were made to two LED angles near the school slope to eliminate unnecessary shadow pockets.

4.5 Stage 3: Full-Area Synchronization Test

The final commissioning step involved energizing all 200 units simultaneously. The test was conducted at 8:40 PM, chosen for its representative foot-traffic volume across all wards.

To observe the system holistically, I positioned myself on an elevated point near the school’s west slope—the same place where I first witnessed the area’s darkness before installation. From there, the transformation was profound.

One by one, the lights activated; then, within seconds, the entire corridor—from school grounds to Baidam Road—came alive in a clean, continuous ribbon of white illumination. Workers, shopkeepers, teachers, and several students gathered spontaneously. Some recorded videos; others applauded. A few parents approached us to say:

“This road has never been this bright. This changes everything.”

It was a rare moment where months of engineering, planning, and negotiation manifested into a visible, shared accomplishment.

4.6 Environmental and Stress Testing

To ensure long-term resilience, the system underwent additional stress tests:

• Monsoon simulation test via controlled water spray on selected fixtures
• Wind vibration check for pole stiffness
• Extended operation test running fixtures at 100% brightness for 8 hours
• Battery autonomy simulation using reduced solar-charging days

All results confirmed that each installation met or exceeded the performance criteria defined in the technical design.

4.7 Battery Performance Validation

Randomly selected battery units were tested for:

• State of charge (SoC)
• Voltage stability
• Load response under maximum brightness
• Overnight voltage drop

LiFePO₄ battery behavior matched expectations, confirming the suitability of this chemistry for Pokhara’s temperature and moisture profile.

Battery voltage drop remained within the predicted range of 2.1–2.9% overnight during standard illumination profiles.

4.8 Community Walkthrough Assessments

After technical commissioning, a “community walkthrough” evaluation was conducted with:

• Ward committee representatives
• School administrators
• Local shopkeepers
• Tourism pathway stewards

This participatory review enabled non-technical stakeholders to identify potential usability or safety concerns.

Feedback included:

• Additional lighting benefited the school’s western stairway
• Vendors felt more comfortable operating until 9:00 PM
• Students reported improved visibility when walking home
• Tourists noted increased comfort on Lakeside extensions

Community feedback aligned with technical results, strengthening confidence in project performance.

4.9 Third-Party Inspection and Acceptance

The municipality appointed independent inspectors who randomly evaluated 15 units across all three wards. Their assessment covered:

• Alignment accuracy
• Foundation integrity
• Wiring and waterproofing
• Solar panel cleanliness and angle
• Nighttime illumination
• Safety compliance

All inspected units were approved, confirming full acceptance of the system.

4.10 Six-Month Performance Monitoring

Post-commissioning monitoring data indicated:

• No significant failures across 200 units
• Minor adjustments needed only for 3 fixtures due to wind-driven misalignment
• Measurable improvements in nighttime traffic flow and pedestrian behavior
• High battery SoC even during peak monsoon months
• Increased use of school grounds for evening academic activities

These outcomes validate the engineering assumptions underpinning system design.

4.11 Overall Performance Summary

The commissioning process confirmed that:

• Solar charging sufficiency meets year-round requirements
• LED fixtures deliver the expected illumination uniformity
• Structural components withstand environmental stresses
• Community usability improves substantially
• The system aligns with international and municipal standards
• The lighting network significantly increases nighttime safety

The project successfully transitioned into full operational status, securing measurable and long-term benefits for the community.

5. Conclusion & Lessons Learned

5.1 Overall Project Achievement

The Pokhara Solar Street Lighting Project successfully delivered a fully operational network of 200 solar-powered lighting units across Wards 6, 5, and 8, addressing long-standing gaps in public illumination infrastructure. The system now provides reliable, grid-independent lighting for school routes, residential corridors, commercial zones, and tourism pathways. Technical performance indicators from commissioning and six months of monitoring confirm that the project meets all design expectations, from illumination uniformity to battery resilience and structural durability.

More importantly, the impact reaches far beyond technical compliance. The project has visibly enhanced safety, increased public confidence in nighttime movement, supported the local economy, and strengthened the daily lives of students, workers, and residents. The improvement around Shree Jana Priya Secondary School stands out as a particularly meaningful outcome, empowering children with a safer environment and enabling the school to extend evening academic activities.

5.2 Key Technical Takeaways

5.2.1 Importance of Conservative Solar Sizing

Pokhara’s monsoon variability confirmed the importance of sizing solar modules and batteries beyond nominal values. The use of 150W panels and 54Ah LiFePO₄ batteries ensured continuous operation even during periods of reduced irradiance. This highlights a broader lesson:

Designing for the worst solar month, not the average month, is essential for Himalayan-region solar installations.

5.2.2 Structural Robustness in Mixed Soil Conditions

Foundations performed well across all soil types—dense clay, gravelly mixes, and sandy-silt compositions. The decision to standardize foundation sizing simplified construction and quality control. This experience reinforced the idea that:

In heterogeneous terrains, uniform foundation design provides more value than complex differential sizing.

5.2.3 Optical Configuration and Road Context

The combination of 75W LED fixtures and Type III distribution proved highly effective in:

• Narrow hillside lanes
• Mixed-use commercial alleys
• Pedestrian-dominated tourist walkways

Illumination uniformity exceeded expectations even in visually complex environments, validating the design approach that balanced luminance requirements with energy optimization.

5.2.4 Battery Compartment Integration

Integrating batteries within the pole structure significantly reduced environmental stress and theft risk. This design choice:

• Improved thermal stability
• Enhanced waterproofing
• Reduced maintenance visits
• Minimized vandalism vulnerability

For future deployments in Nepal’s public spaces, pole-integrated battery systems remain the recommended approach.

5.2.5 The Role of Dimming Profiles

The adaptive dimming schedule—with early-evening peak brightness and late-night reduced consumption—balanced visibility needs with battery longevity. This demonstrated:

Intelligent load management is crucial for long-term sustainability in standalone lighting systems.

5.3 Operational and Social Lessons

5.3.1 Community Engagement as a Performance Factor

The project revealed that community involvement is not an optional soft element—it is a technical factor influencing success. Early consultations ensured:

• Optimal pole placement
• Avoidance of obstruction risks
• Better protection against vandalism
• Community ownership and care of the system

During one of my final walkthroughs, an elderly resident in Ward 6 told me:

“We will look after these lights. They belong to all of us.”

Such statements reflect the long-term value of integrating community voices into engineering decisions.

5.3.2 Working in School Environments

School zones require unique construction protocols. Restricting work to specific time windows, maintaining strict safety controls, and coordinating daily with teachers prevented disruptions. The experience reinforced:

Infrastructure development near schools must prioritize safety, communication, and predictable scheduling.

5.3.3 Navigating Commercial and Tourism Areas

The project demonstrated that:

• Marketplace construction must be flexible around vendor activity
• Tourist-heavy zones require special attention to pedestrian flow and signage
• Noise and dust management are essential for maintaining public trust

These factors shaped a smoother project timeline and reduced community complaints.

5.3.4 Adapting to Weather Interruptions

Monsoon-driven delays were inevitable. Rather than forcing progress, the team adopted a responsive scheduling model that shifted labor to indoor electrical assembly or stable-soil areas during wet periods. The lesson learned:

Weather-responsive scheduling enhances efficiency and protects construction quality.

5.4 Engineering Reflections (First-Person Perspective)

From the perspective of the lead engineer overseeing both design and field execution, the project was more than a technical exercise—it was an experience rooted in human interaction, local culture, and responsibility.

I vividly remember standing on the slope above Shree Jana Priya Secondary School on the night of the full-area synchronization test. As the last of the 200 lights activated, the hillside transformed from a patchwork of shadows into a continuous, safe corridor. Teachers, parents, and students watched in shared silence before celebrating together. It struck me then that engineering projects are truly successful not when equipment functions, but when people feel the difference.

I also learned the value of humility in fieldwork. On several occasions, residents pointed out hazards or blind spots we had not initially noticed. Their insights made the system better, safer, and more relevant to local needs.

In Nepal, where communities are closely knit and pathways intersect with daily routines, technical solutions must be shaped by lived experiences. This project deepened my respect for community-driven engineering and reaffirmed my belief that infrastructure should always serve people first.

5.5 Replicability and Future Opportunities

The project provides a replicable blueprint for other municipalities in Nepal:

• Standardized foundation designs
• Reliable solar sizing for monsoon-heavy climates
• Pedestrian-friendly illumination
• Battery integration to counter theft and moisture
• Community-driven location selection

The success across diverse environments—school zones, commercial areas, and tourism corridors—demonstrates that solar street lighting can meet Nepal’s growing urbanization needs sustainably and cost-effectively.

Municipal authorities have already expressed interest in extending the network to Ward 9 and Ward 13, citing the strong performance and community satisfaction observed in the implemented wards.

5.6 Final Conclusion

The Pokhara Solar Street Lighting Project stands as a model of integrated technical planning, proactive community engagement, and climate-resilient infrastructure deployment. It addresses critical urban challenges while empowering vulnerable populations—especially students, small business owners, and nighttime pedestrians.

Through the project’s careful engineering design, disciplined construction practices, and evidence-based commissioning results, Pokhara now benefits from a reliable, sustainable lighting system that enhances safety, mobility, and economic opportunity.

The lessons learned here will guide future projects across Nepal and comparable regions worldwide, contributing to broader goals of sustainable urban development and improved public welfare.