Key Takeaways:

• 2.68-km Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel inaugurated; initially open only to emergency vehicles
• Project includes main tunnel and 2.56-km rescue tunnel with advanced safety systems
• Built by Japan's Hazama Ando Corporation, financed by Nepal and Japan at Rs 29 billion
• Once fully operational, tolls will apply; cars to pay Rs 65 entering Kathmandu, Rs 60 leaving

KATHMANDU, JULY 27 Nepal on Monday officially inaugurated its first modern road tunnel, the 2.68-kilometre Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel, marking a major milestone in the country's transport infrastructure after nearly seven years of construction. Minister for Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal inaugurated the tunnel in the presence of Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Dr Akihiko Tanaka. The project was formally handed over to the government following the ceremony. The tunnel will initially be opened only to emergency vehicles, including ambulances and security forces, for testing. After a trial period, it will be gradually opened to private and public vehicles. No toll will be charged during the testing phase.

Connecting Dahachok in Chandragiri Municipality, Kathmandu, with Sisnekhola in Dhunibesi Municipality, Dhading, the tunnel is expected to cut travel time on the congested Nagdhunga section by nearly an hour. The project comprises a 2.68-km main tunnel and a 2.56-km emergency rescue tunnel equipped with CCTV cameras, fire-fighting systems, emergency communication facilities, ventilation and other safety features.

Pedestrians, motorcycles, three-wheelers and vehicles carrying fuel, gas, explosives or other flammable materials will not be allowed to use the tunnel. Once fully operational, toll charges will apply, with cars and vans paying Rs 65 when entering Kathmandu and Rs 60 when leaving. Higher rates have been fixed for minibuses, buses, trucks and heavy vehicles. Construction began after the foundation stone was laid by then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on November 21, 2019. Although scheduled for completion within 42 months, the project was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, compensation disputes and other challenges.

Built by Japan's Hazama Ando Corporation, the project was financed through concessional loans from the Japanese government and investment by the Government of Nepal. The total project cost rose to around Rs 29 billion after additional funding was provided during construction.