Nagdhunga Tunnel opens for trial operation of small vehicles

The Nagdhunga Tunnel has entered a trial operation phase, allowing private vehicles and small four-wheelers to use the route. Starting Monday, outbound traffic from Kathmandu to Dhading is permitted to use the tunnel daily between 9 am and 6 pm.

Authorized vehicles include cars, jeeps, vans, government transport, and ambulances with a seating capacity of up to nine passengers. Two-wheelers and vehicles carrying highly flammable materials are currently prohibited. Authorities plan to introduce two-way traffic shortly and intend to gradually extend operating hours, with a long-term goal of service from 6 am to 10 pm.

The project, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 24 billion by Japan’s Hazama-Ando JV, faced several delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and land compensation disputes. Once fully operational, the tunnel is expected to alleviate significant traffic congestion on the Kathmandu–Naubise section and facilitate easier movement between the capital and western districts.