Kathmandu, August 29

The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport (MoPIT) is awaiting a response from the Chinese government to move forward with three infrastructure projects — Ring Road expansion, Kathmandu-Syafrubesi-Rasuwagadhi road and Kathmandu-Tatopani road expansion.

It has been several times that the government has approached northern neighbour for a concrete answer on these projects, however Chinese side has not yet provided any fruitful response.

“We have approached the Chinese government time and again seeking their assistance in developing these three projects, however they have only been saying that they are positive on the issue but have not provided any concrete answer till date,” said Devendra Karki, secretary of MoPIT.

The government has proposed to the Chinese government to assist in constructing the remaining 17-kilometre section of the Ring Road. However, the Chinese side has not yet decided on whether it is willing to invest in the project or not.

Due to the delay in getting a decision from the Chinese side, the detail designing process of the project has also not been completed. Out of the total 27 kilometres of the Ring Road, the 10-kilometre section between Kalanki and Koteshwor is in the final stage of completion.

Likewise, the government has approached the Chinese government repeatedly to invest in the Kathmandu-Tatopani road expansion project. All three projects have always been the major agenda in the joint meetings held between the government officials of both countries. However, the government has not received any concrete answer from the Chinese side. “This is also another project which we have prioritised,” said Karki.

Another project is Kathmandu-Syafrubesi-Rasuwagadhi road expansion project which is the shortest route that connects Chinese city of Kyirong to Kathmandu. The widening process of Syafrubesi-Rasuwagadhi section of this road will begin very soon, however the fate of the other

section is still undecided.

“The Department of Roads is rebuilding Nuwakot-Syafrubesi section, however we have requested China to provide

assistance for the entire project that includes Tokha-Chhahare tunnel section too,” he added.