POKHARA: The Korala-Pokhara-Triveni road is understood to be an important base for development and prosperity of Gandaki Province. Construction of the road linking India and China has drawn concerns from within and outside the province of late.

In this connection, Gandaki Province Chief Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung expressed his belief that the road connecting the two neighbouring countries would be a milestone for overall development and prosperity of the province. He further noted that the province government has put the road in its priority.

Realising its importance, a Cabinet meeting of Gandaki Province has also sought necessary cooperation from federal government for the road construction.

'A Chinese company has shown interest to develop a DPR for construction of the road from Korala to Susta without any cost', shared the Chief Minister, adding that the construction would be taken ahead with collaboration between federal and provincial governments.

Furthermore, Gandaki Province Cabinet recommended that the federal government take necessary initiative with India for the up-gradation and full operation of Triveni customs check point along with construction of road from wetland area of Chitwan National Park.

Likewise, the Kaligandaki Corridor Construction under Pokhara-Korala road section as the national pride project has also gained momentum. Upgradation and blacktopping of 75-km Beni-Jomsom road is also underway, shared Project Engineer Jagan Prajapati. The two-lane road is being constructed and upscaled at a cost of Rs 2.4 billion. Likewise, the task of laying gravels on the 110-kilometre Jomsom-Korala road section is also being carried out at a cost of Rs 2.6 billion.

Similarly, a track of 110-km Khairanitar-Bhimad-Kawaswoti has been opened, informed Chief of Road Division Office Damauli, Bhanu Joshi.

As the construction of roads establishing connectivity with India and China will have substantial contribution to overall economic prosperity and development of the country including Gandaki Province, it is imperative to expedite the road expansion works with collaborative efforts of local, provincial and federal governments.