CHITWAN: The Muglin-Malekhu section of the Prithvi Highway has seen just 37.5% progress in three years, prompting authorities to extend the project by six months.
The road contract, signed on December 30, 2022, was originally scheduled for completion within three years. Bids for the Muglin-Nagdhunga section were invited in three phases, with the deadline for the third phase expiring on December 30, 2025. The extension was granted due to discrepancies in design data and mapping, said Bijay Darai, engineer of the western section of the project.
The construction company cited multiple delays, including slow road clearance, relocation of trees and poles, difficulty in procuring materials, and heavy traffic. Darai noted that while the timeline has been extended, discussions on mapping and other unresolved issues continue.
So far, slightly over nine kilometers have been blacktopped, with work ongoing in Charaudi and preparations underway in Fisling. Construction on drains, barriers, and bridges continues, with around 150 workers on site daily. Authorities have urged the company to expedite the work and complete the project within the extended period.
The 38.86-kilometer section includes 2.2 km of six-lane road in Malekhu, Benighat, and Muglin, and 7.2 km of four-lane road through Ramala Danda, Kurintar, Fisling, Chumling, Majhimtar, Charaudi, and Bishaltar. A 2.3 km three-lane “climbing” road will be built on uphill and downhill stretches, while the rest of the highway will remain two-lane.
Sharma-ZICG secured the contract for Rs 4.80 billion (approximately $5.9 million). In addition to blacktopping, pending work includes drains, landslide prevention structures, retaining walls, and road safety installations. The project is being implemented with World Bank assistance and forms a major entry and exit route for Kathmandu.
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