The construction of the Nagdhunga-Sisnekhola tunnel has reached 80.5 percent completion four years after work began, with key infrastructure milestones achieved. The project, launched on October 21, 2019, aims to significantly ease traffic congestion on the key route connecting Kathmandu to the western as well as other parts of the country.

Project head Gyanendra Kumar Jha reported that key components, including three underpasses, three box culverts, one overpass, and three bridges, have been completed. The lining work inside the tunnel is also done, and finishing touches for the tasks are underway. Additionally, a flyover construction at Balambu is progressing rapidly.

The main tunnel breakthrough was achieved on April 15, with further construction underway to complete the route. The blacktopping of the two-lane road from Balambu to the tunnel entrance at Tutipakha, covering 2.307 kilometres, is also complete. The emergency tunnel breakthrough, spanning 2,557 metres, was achieved on August 7 2023.

Despite delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and local obstructions, the project’s revised deadline has now been extended by 1.5 years, with the expected opening set for October 2025. Upon completion, the tunnel is estimated to save approximately Rs1.72 billion annually on tyre and fuel costs. However, it will be closed to two-wheelers and fuel tankers for safety reasons.

Japanese company Hazama Ando Corporation is constructing the Rs22 billion project, funded by a Rs6.5 billion loan from Japan and Rs6 billion from the Nepal government. The main tunnel measures 2.688 kilometres in length, marking a significant infrastructure investment towards modernising Nepal’s transportation network.