KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is making significant strides in its stone paving projects, with over 10,729 square meters of area already covered.
The metropolis aims to complete the paving of 32,851 square meters by the end of the fiscal year 2024/25, focusing on heritage zones, pedestrian pathways, internal roads, and alleys. The initiative, overseen by the Public Works Department, is expected to enhance walkability and preserve the city’s traditional aesthetics.
According to Department Chief Suraj Shakya, the paving work is currently underway in six wards—6, 8, 12, 21, 26, and 27—along with the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Conservation Area.
The total estimated cost of the project stands at Rs 294.788 million, while contracts worth Rs 281.492 million have been awarded through a public procurement process. So far, the metropolis has disbursed Rs 46.246 million for completed projects.
Progress has already been made in several key areas, including Jayabageshwari Marg in Ward 8, where 1,485 square meters have been paved at a cost of Rs 12.66 million. Similarly, 1,825 square meters of road from Humat to Lagan in Ward 12 have been completed at a cost of Rs 15.468 million.
In Ward 21, Lagan Chowk has seen the completion of 2,092 square meters of paving work, while Kumarikrupa Marg in Ward 26 and Ramhiti Marg in Ward 6 have also undergone stone paving.
Construction is also in progress on major routes such as Jamal to Indrachowk via Asan to Kamaladi, and Bhotahiti to Indrachowk via Asan. The city’s paving efforts, however, are closely tied to underground electricity wiring projects, requiring careful coordination with the Nepal Electricity Authority.
According to Shakya, stone paving in areas such as Asan to Bir Hospital, Mahabouddha to Chittadhar Marg, and the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar area will only commence after the completion of underground cable installation. He emphasized that laying stones before underground electrical work would lead to unnecessary costs and resource wastage.
The stone paving project is part of Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s broader urban development plan aimed at improving infrastructure while preserving the historic and cultural identity of the city. As work continues, residents and visitors can expect more pedestrian-friendly streets and improved public spaces in key heritage locations.
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