Nagdhunga‑Sisnekhola Tunnel Begins Trial Operation in Kathmandu

The Nagdhunga‑Sisnekhola Tunnel in Kathmandu will enter a three‑month trial period starting July 27, allowing only emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines and security units. Deputy Project Director Sanjay Panthi said the trial will be followed by full operation, though motorcycles and fuel‑carrying vehicles will remain prohibited. Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal will officially inaugurate the tunnel, with the head of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in attendance.

Construction, led by Japanese contractor Hazama Ando Joint Venture, began in 2019 and was financed through a Rs 16 billion concessional loan from JICA together with about Rs 9 billion from the Nepalese government for land acquisition and related costs. A foundation stone laid by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was destroyed in a fire during recent protests, and officials have not decided whether to replace it.