KATHMANDU: Nepal’s long-awaited Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel is in its final stage of preparation, with authorities targeting operation by the end of July.
The 2.688-kilometre tunnel, built over more than five years, is now about 99 percent complete, according to project officials. A parliamentary team led by Infrastructure Development Committee chair Ashish Gajurel inspected the site on Monday.
Project director Saujanya Nepal said only minor works remain, including landslide control near the western portal and some compensation-related tasks. “Around 96 percent of the budget has already been spent,” he said.
Although physical construction is nearly complete, officials said the tunnel will open only after staff training and operational testing are finished. The operating company is expected to deploy about 150 personnel working in three shifts.
The project, which began in November 2019, was initially scheduled for completion within three and a half years but faced multiple delays. The deadline was extended four times.
Built with a joint investment of concessional financing from Japan and the Government of Nepal, the total cost has increased by about 18 percent due to inflation and additional safety measures.
Once operational, the tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel time. Vehicles traveling at 60 km/h will be able to cross in about seven minutes, easing congestion on the existing highway.
Toll and access
Toll rates have already been set. Passenger cars and vans will pay Rs 65 when entering Kathmandu and Rs 60 when exiting. Larger vehicles, including buses and trucks, will pay higher rates depending on size.
A digital payment system using RFID technology has been installed at the Kathmandu entry point, allowing automatic toll collection. Manual payment options will also be available.
Pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, and vehicles carrying flammable or explosive materials will not be allowed inside the tunnel. Use of the tunnel will not be mandatory; drivers can continue using the existing road.
Safety features
The tunnel includes an emergency passage running parallel to the main tunnel, with seven rescue exits placed at regular intervals. It is equipped with 15 CCTV cameras, fire hydrants every 50 meters, jet fans for ventilation, and dedicated emergency response systems.
Two ambulances will be stationed inside, and coordination has been arranged with nearby hospitals for emergency response. Mobile network connectivity has also been installed inside the tunnel.
Revenue and operations
Officials estimate that around 60 percent of the roughly 8,800 vehicles currently using the Nagdhunga route daily will divert to the tunnel. This could generate significant daily toll revenue, part of which will be used for maintenance through the national road fund.
Committee chair Gajurel questioned repeated delays and warned against further postponement. “This is a public investment of around Rs 28 billion. People deserve timely service,” he said.
Officials attributed delays to contractor selection issues, added safety requirements, and disputes over operation management involving foreign companies.
With final preparations underway, authorities say the project is now on track to begin operations within the announced timeline.
Comment