KATHMANDU: Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Raghubir Mahaseth has stated that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the construction of a tunnel in Koteshwor would be prepared within a year in view of reducing traffic congestion in one of the busiest thoroughfares in Kathmandu.

Responding to the queries of lawmakers in today's House of Representatives meeting held to discuss the Appropriation Bill-2075 at the Federal Parliament Building in New Baneshwor, Minister Mahaseth shared that delays in the road reform projects at Kalanki and Chabahil were due to unresolved issues relating to compensation.

The Minister apprised that blacktopping of the Narayangadh-Muglin road section had been completed and works were taken ahead for landslide prevention measures along this road-section in full swing.

According to him, construction of the roads and bridges were not completed on time due to lack of adequate budget. He shared that process of payment of the multi-years' contracts were also executed. The Minister also clarified that works could be taken ahead to replace contract system as per the existing rules.

Lawmakers Prem Suwal, Akhtar Kamal Musalman, Durga Bahadur Raut, Rajendra Kumar KC, Gyan Kumari Chhantyal, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Rangamati Shahi, Prem Bahadur Ale, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Kedar Sigdel, Bimala BK, Krishna Prasad Dahal and Anjana Bishankhe had demanded further justification with Minister Mahaseth.