Construction Halted on Nagdhunga-Muglin Road Expansion Due to Sharp Price Increases and Material Shortages

The expansion work on the Nagdhunga-Muglin road has been halted due to sharp price increases and a shortage of construction materials. The first section of the eastern segment is 85 percent complete, while the second part has progressed 57.1 percent. On the western segment, 43.96 percent of work is done, with the relocation of electric poles still pending. (27 Baishakh, Chitwan) The expansion of this road, regarded as the main ‘lifeline’ connecting Kathmandu with other regions, has been stopped. The construction company has cited rising costs and material shortages as reasons for the work stoppage. With work paused across the three segments, there are concerns about potentially greater impacts during the upcoming monsoon season.

The 95-kilometer stretch from Nagdhunga to Muglin was divided into eastern and western segments, with expansion work starting in mid-2079 BS (2022 AD). The project plans to build a six-lane road through major market areas, four lanes through smaller markets, and three lanes elsewhere. In areas characterized by difficult terrain and high landslide risk, a dedicated two-lane road expansion will be implemented. Additionally, from Naubise to Nagdhunga, a separate climbing lane will be constructed exclusively for heavy vehicles.

The climbing lane will extend 4.7 kilometers from Nagdhunga to Naubise and 17.5 kilometers from Naubise to Malekhu. Where the road has three lanes, one lane will function as the climbing lane. This lane will have distinct markings and be accessible only to heavy vehicles. Within this section, 21 new four-lane bridges will be constructed. Approximately 12,000 vehicles use this road daily. The project is financed by a concessional loan from the World Bank. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly improve transportation connectivity for the capital Kathmandu and surrounding regions.