Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, February 15:

Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s (KMC) Public Works Department (PWD) is working in full swing to complete 26 inner city roads that was begun around a month ago. “We need to complete the work within two months as we are already late,” said PWD chief Naba Raj Adhikary. The construction the 26 inner roads is a continuation of the development works of the fiscal year 2060/2061 BS. “This time we have people’s participation to make them feel like the owners of the roads and to help make those more durable,” he said adding the public has contributed around 20 per cent of the total cost, amounting to the tune of some Rs 4 crore.

The Road Board Nepal contributed 50 per cent with KMC contributing the remaining 30 per cent. Saying that the metropolis would conduct all types of technical tests regarding the quality of the roads, Adhikary promised the roads being constructed would last long. The sections of road under construction include Mathur Marg, Shrijanshil Marg, Diyali Marg, Pasang Lhamu Sadak, Siddeswor Marg, Bouddha Dwar Marg, Parijat Marg, Kalanki Paschim Height Marg, Dallu-Chhauni-Janasewa Marg, Dallu-Lakha-Tirtha Marg, Erahiti Marg, Gyanjyoti Marg, Gongabu Ring Road-Miteri Bridge, Nikhil Marg, Godhuli Chowk Marg and Dantakali Marg.

Work is on at Siddhartha Marg, Kalinchowk Marg, Shanti Nagar Marg, Chakrapani Chalise Marg, Pragati Nagar Marg, Kumud Devkota Marg, Nirajanbikram-Radha Marg, Aditya Marg, Saraswoti Marg and Sahoyoginagar Samparka Marg.

According to PWD road section chief Bimal Ranjit, some 25 per cent of the work has been completed. Ranjit said KMC has over 300 km of black-topped roads, out of which some 100 km need to be repaired. He said at least 30 km of the blacktopped road is in bad condition and need immediate repair works done.

Ranjit informed KMC is preparing a proposal for a second phase programme that includes 13 different roads to be blacktopped as demanded by user groups. KMC is also making plans to make 100 km of the roads pothole-free. This, the officials said, would take time.