KATHMANDU: The Kalanki Underpass that was closed for further construction just a few days after its opening reopened from Wednesday, easing the traffic congestion in one of the busiest area of Kathmandu Valley.

The Kalanki Underpass was closed last Thursday citing some remaining construction works, with a plan to reopen within a week.

The 800-metre underpass in Kalanki, stretching between Khasi Bazaar and Bafal Chowk, was opened for vehicular movement last Thursday amidst much fanfare.

Being constructed at around Rs 5 billion grant from the Chinese government, Kalanki Underpass is a part of the Koteshwor-Balkhupul-Kalanki Ring Road Improvement Project.

Construction of this four-lane underpass in Kalanki began in 2013. Though the project was expected to be completed within 2016, its progress was hampered due to the earthquakes of 2015 and subsequent supply obstructions on the southern border.