A public “Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run and Walk” was held on Saturday inside the Nagdhunga-Sisnekhola tunnel, marking the first public event at Nepal's first road tunnel ahead of its long-awaited opening.

The event, jointly organised by the Department of Roads and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), took place nearly a year after construction was completed. The tunnel is now set to begin trial operations on July 27, following months of delays caused by technical and administrative issues.

Officials say the tunnel will be opened in phases. A formal inauguration is planned for July 27, with representatives from JICA, the project’s key development partner, expected to attend.

The government has already finalised toll rates for vehicles using the tunnel. Cars and vans will pay Rs65 when entering Kathmandu and Rs60 when travelling out of the valley. Mini-buses, light trucks and tippers will be charged Rs115 inbound and Rs80 outbound, while buses and heavy trucks will pay Rs260 to enter Kathmandu and Rs200 to leave through the tunnel.

Under the Nagdhunga-Sisnekhola Tunnel Road Operation Directive, 2024, pedestrians, motorcycles, three-wheelers and other non-motorised vehicles will be prohibited from using the tunnel. Access will be limited to eligible motor vehicles.