Hetauda, October 29
The Nepali Army (NA) has assured that if the unresolved issues in the Khokana-Bungmati area, under Package No. 11 in Lalitpur, are addressed, the construction of the Kathmandu-Terai Expressway can meet its scheduled deadline.
NA Spokesperson and Brigadier General Gaurav Kumar KC acknowledged that progress on this national pride project has been hindered by various challenges but emphasized that efforts are underway to complete it within the stipulated timeline.
The NA has been assigned to construct the 72.5-km expressway, which will connect Kathmandu to Madhesh Province. Package No. 11 has emerged as the primary obstacle to the project’s advancement, explained Spokesperson KC.
“We have been unable to proceed with the contract and procurement processes due to unresolved issues related to Package No. 11. While a committee has been formed in coordination with the Ministry, it is essential to foster an enabling environment by securing support from local communities and other stakeholders,” he stated.
The four-lane expressway will follow the Bagmati River Corridor, passing through Khokana in Lalitpur district and reaching Nijgadh in Bara district via Makawanpur, as outlined in the Detailed Project Report.
Spokesperson KC further highlighted that issues surrounding tree felling and land acquisition are being resolved. He clarified that, although the project’s physical and financial progress may appear low in percentage terms, significant on-ground progress has been achieved.
The project has reportedly reached 36.42% completion, with assurances that it will be finished on time if payment-related and other administrative issues are addressed promptly. KC also mentioned that delays in procurement were due to unresolved decisions regarding the expressway’s initial point and traffic management in the Khokana-Bungmati area.
Currently, the project’s financial progress stands at 38.55%. Of the total 13 construction packages, Packages No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8A, 8B, 9B, and 10 are actively under construction, while Package No. 11 remains the most challenging.
The expressway will feature a 6.41-km tunnel, along with 89 bridges that will span 10.59 km along the route.
