Rara and Phoksundo lakes to be linked by road

SURKHET: Upgrading work has begun to connect Tripurakot Municipality-1 in Dolpa to Maure in Jumla, with a budget exceeding Rs 250 million.

The road linking Jumla from Triveni in Aathbiskot Municipality-6 of Rukum Paschim has already been constructed, prompting the initiation of an alternative route to connect Jumla as well.

Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Urban Development Sher Bahadur Budha stated that Rs 250.988 million has been allocated for the Tripurakot–Maure road upgrade, which has commenced under a contractual agreement. Once completed, the road will facilitate easier travel for locals and tourists, while linking the renowned Rara and Phoksundo Lakes by land.

The Minister emphasized that connecting these two major tourist destinations in Karnali will boost tourism in both districts and create opportunities for locals to earn income through tourism-oriented businesses. Additionally, a budget of Rs 40 million has been allocated for the road connecting Balangra via Chungard and Liku, with construction set to begin soon.

Tek Hitan, Chief of the Infrastructure Development Office in Dolpa, said the multi-year project will link Raratal in Mugu via Tripurakot, Chhal, Kaigaun, Maurelek, and Jumla. The road upgrade agreement, which is scheduled for completion within two years, was signed in July.

Covering a total length of 68 kilometers, the Tripurakot–Maure road will include a gravel road with drainage extending to the sacred Budhal Mast Temple in Chhal.