Churiamai Tunnel opens to the public following reconstruction

KATHMANDU: The Churiamai Tunnel, located in Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-15, is set to open for public observation following its reconstruction.

The tunnel, restored at a cost of Rs 45.7 million by the Bagmati Province Government, will be formally handed over to the Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City on Monday.

The handover ceremony, led by the Provincial Directorate of Transport Infrastructure, marks the transition of tunnel management to the local government.

Minakumari Lama, Mayor of Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City, said that the tunnel would immediately be opened for public observation after the handover.

Entry fees have been set at Rs 50 for Nepali citizens, Rs 120 for foreigners, and Rs 20 for students. Entry is free for children under five, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.

The reconstructed tunnel aims to serve as a new tourist attraction.

Originally built in 1917 during the tenure of Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher, the tunnel connected Bara in Madhesh Province and Makwanpur in Bagmati Province. It was operational for vehicles until 1963.

Reconstruction of the 198-meter-long tunnel began in April 2022, with an extension increasing its length to 225 meters.

After years of inactivity due to management uncertainties, the Provincial Directorate of Transport Infrastructure confirmed that the sub-metropolitan city has agreed to manage and operate the tunnel.

Director Pushpkar Raj Pokhrel saidt the reopening of the Churiamai Tunnel will not only preserve a historic structure but also enhance local tourism and connectivity in the region.