KATHMANDU, Aug 24: The Nagdhunga Tunnel has opened for trial operation, allowing private and small four-wheeler vehicles to pass through starting Monday.
According to the Department of Roads (DoR), outbound vehicles traveling from Kathmandu to Dhading have been permitted to use the tunnel daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Four-wheelers with a seating capacity of up to nine passengers, including private cars, government office transports, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles will be allowed use the tunnel except during restricted hours.
Nagdhunga tunnel set for trial operation from July 27
The DoR stated that permits were issued after assessing operational conditions and traffic management prospects. Preparations are underway to introduce two-way traffic soon. Following successful trials, operating hours are expected to be extended from 7 am to 8 pm, and eventually from 6 am to 10 pm.
Officials said the tunnel’s full operation is expected to significantly reduce travel time along the Kathmandu–Naubise section by easing traffic congestion and facilitating both passenger and cargo movement through the shortcut route.
Constructed at a cost of around Rs 24 billion, the tunnel was inaugurated a month ago. The foundation stone was laid seven years earlier, with the government awarding the construction contract to Japan’s Hazama-Ando JV for completion within 42 months.
However, the project faced multiple delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, disputes over land compensation, local concerns regarding water supply, and other issues. As a result, the deadline was extended four times before completion.
