Progress in Expansion Work on the Kankadbhitta-Laukahi Section of Mahendra Highway

May 27, Kathmandu – The East-West Mahendra Highway is being widened according to Asian Highway standards. Expansion work on the Kankadbhitta–Laukahi section is currently underway following these specifications. However, progress has been sluggish. According to the construction company, rising fuel prices and shortages of construction materials have impeded the expansion on this stretch. After the construction of a four-lane bridge over the Mechi River at the Nepal-India border, Nepal was connected to the A-grade Asian Highway network six years ago. The East-West Mahendra Highway falls under Route 2 of the Asian Highway, while the Birgunj–Kodari section is part of Route 42.

The eastern section of the Kankadbhitta-Laukahi segment is being developed by the Eurascan Kalika JV. On this stretch, base layering work for the first layer of asphalt is ongoing over 22 kilometers, and asphalt paving has already started in some parts. The entire eastern section from Kankadbhitta to Sitapuri, totaling 45 kilometers, is being constructed at a cost of NPR 1.094 billion. The contract for this section was awarded on November 16, 2023.