KATHMANDU, JUNE 9
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli held discussions with local residents and their representatives from Khokana and Bungmati regarding ongoing disputes and potential resolutions related to the starting point of the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Expressway.
Coordinator of the Local People's Concerns Committee, Nepal Dangol, along with other representatives, met with the Prime Minister and presented suggestions aimed at resolving the dispute. The committee proposed shifting the expressway's starting point to Dukuchhap-an alternative they believe would not only address the conflict but also help preserve the heritage and cultural fabric of Khokana.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Oli assured the local leaders that he would personally visit the site before any final decision is made, reaffirming that the government does not intend to pursue development at the expense of local communities.
The meeting was also attended by Defence Secretary Rameshwor Dangal, officials from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, and representatives of the Nepali Army.
Previously, on February 5, PM Oli convened a meeting to review the project's progress and challenges, bringing together Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal, Minister for Defence Man Bir Rai, PM's Economic Affairs Advisor Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada, Chief of Army Staff Ashokraj Sigdel, and other senior officials.
The Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Expressway, spanning a total length of 70.97 kilometers, is estimated to cost Rs 211.93 billion and is scheduled for completion by mid-April 2026.
