Nagdhunga tunnel set to ease Kathmandu traffic

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has announced that the construction of the Naubise-Nagdhunga tunnel, a key entry point to the capital, is in its final stages and will soon be operational, offering relief to citizens who have long suffered from severe traffic congestion.

On Sunday, through social media, Prime Minister Oli assured the public that once the tunnel is operational, hours-long traffic jams and related difficulties for commuters passing through Nagdhunga will be significantly reduced.

According to project officials, over 93% of the physical construction work has been completed, and the tunnel is expected to open for public use within the next few months.

The project aims to be fully accessible by Poush-Magh, though the construction company plans to hand over the project by early Kartik 7.

Additional time will be required for safety testing, staff training, and formal handover procedures before full-scale operations.

In preparation for the upcoming Dashain festival, the government is also considering a trial operation of the tunnel to manage the heavy traffic flow of vehicles exiting and entering the valley.

Prime Minister Oli stated, “The Naubise-Nagdhunga tunnel is in its final phase of construction. Once operational, it will end the long-standing difficulties faced by commuters traveling through Nagdhunga.”

Toll Fees Set by Government

Meanwhile, the government has finalized toll charges for vehicles using the tunnel. At a Cabinet meeting held on Shrawan 26, fees were set according to vehicle type.

Cars, jeeps, and vans: Rs 65 entering Kathmandu, Rs 60 exiting.

Minibuses and mini-trucks: Rs 115 entering, Rs 80 exiting.

Large buses and trucks: Rs 260 entering, Rs 200 exiting.

Heavy machinery: Rs 600 entering, Rs 250 exiting.