KATHMANDU, JANUARY 11
The Nagdhunga tunnel route is on the verge of a breakthrough, with only 73.60 meters left to complete.
The breakthrough in the evacuation tunnel, spanning 2.55 kilometers, was already achieved in August 2023. Currently, 51 percent of the concrete work inside the tunnel is finished, and workers are gearing up to address tunnel facilities upon completion of the remaining tasks.
The main tunnel of the project, measuring 2,688 meters in length, marks a significant milestone for Nepal as the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project is the first of its kind in the country.
Its primary objective is to enhance the road conditions around the Nagdhunga pass, thereby contributing to the development of a smoother transportation network and fostering improved commercial activities between Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal. This initiative is expected to save time, reduce petroleum consumption, and minimize air pollution.
Commencing in October 2019, the tunnel construction is slated for completion by April 2024. Ramesh Prasad Koirala, the project's engineer, stated that two megawatts of electricity are required for installing the power supply and other tools.
Koirala added that a 24-hour dedicated power supply would be sourced from the 11KVA transmission station of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).
However, disputes over compensation for land acquisition have caused delays in the construction works, as this issue remains a key demand for some locals.
