Narayanghat-Butwal road: Seven questions on whether it will be festival-ready
After years of delays, authorities promise smoother travel this Dashain and Tihar. The bridge over the Binayi river on the Daunne-Dumkibas section of the East-West Highway in Nawalparasi East, pictured in July. The previous bridge running parallel just above the new one was damaged by an overloaded cargo truck in January. Post file photo
It is a major westbound route connecting Kathmandu and the central regions to the western parts of Nepal. Traffic surges during festivals like Dashain and Tihar, making road conditions a key concern for travellers.
When did the highway widening project start, and why was it delayed?
Work began over six years ago in 2019. Multiple factors have caused delays, including construction challenges, monsoon interruptions, and project management issues. The original completion date was July 2022, but it has now been extended to July 2026.
Who is responsible for the project, and what is its cost?
The highway is being widened under a contract awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation, which the Asian Development Bank financed. The total project cost is Rs16.995 billion.
How much progress has been made so far?
So far, 104 kilometres of the 113-kilometre Narayanghat-Butwal road have been asphalted in either direction and 80 kilometres blacktopped in both directions. Most sections are now smooth except for a few stretches in Daunne.
What work remains, particularly in Daunne?
Nine kilometres in Daunne still need final surfacing and paving. Five culverts are under construction. Work was paused during the monsoon, but it will resume immediately after Dashain, with machinery deployed during the festival to ease traffic.
How many vehicles use the highway daily?
On an average, around 10,000-15,000 vehicles travel this section daily. During festivals, traffic increases significantly.
Will the highway be passable for the upcoming festivals?
According to Chudaraj Dhakal, project director at the ADB, the highway is largely smooth apart from the Daunne section. Authorities are working to make Daunne passable as well, so travellers are expected to face fewer difficulties than in previous years, he said.
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