Nagdhunga tunnel work will be expedited to ensure its operation within a year: Minister Jwala

Published On: May 26, 2023 05:45 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, May 26: Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala assured that the works related to Nagdhunga tunnel way will be expedited to ensure that vehicles are able to operate through the tunnel way within a year.

Taking stock of the physical progress of the under-construction Nagdhunga Tunnel Way on Friday, Minister Jwala said that the incumbent government is ready to address all problems surrounding the tunnel way. He also directed the construction company not to halt the tunnel project under any pretexts.

The Nepal first tunnel road project in the country measures 2.7 kilometers in length. It has two lanes. The foundation stone for the project was laid in October 2019.

Talking to media persons, Minister Jwala said, "We have come here to examine the progress of the under-construction Nagdhunga Tunnel Project. We will also find out the problems and issues prevailing in the project. We have led Nepal to the tunnel era."

It was shared that so far, only 699 meters was left to connect the main tunnel and 200 meters left to connect the rescue tunnel which are expected to be carried out during the upcoming Dashain festival.

He pledged to acquire information from the project chief and other stakeholders so as to find out issues relating to the supplies of construction materials and compensation to the victims whose land were acquired for the project.

Furthermore, he shared that his Ministry was serious about delivering on the tunnel project as soon as possible. The tunnel is being developed with the concessional loan assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Meanwhile, he said that there was no excuse to anyone when it comes to expansion and construction of the road leading from Nagdhunga to Muglin.

Assuring optimum support from his Minister the Minister was ready to consider amending the laws and Acts if need be to deliver on the construction of physical infrastructures.

He urged the contractor company not to compromise on delivering on quality road. The road expansion project is supported by the World Bank.

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