After 53 months of work, the Nagdhunga-Sisne River Tunnel is set to “breakthrough” on Monday. This milestone means the tunnel’s excavation will be complete, and the remaining work can commence. However, it will take approximately one more year before vehicles can begin using the tunnel.
The tunnel will significantly reduce the travel time between Thankot in Kathmandu and the Sisne River in Dhading. What once took about an 8.5 km drive will be shortened to a swift 3-minute journey within the 2.688 km tunnel.
“We’re prepared to complete the breakthrough within the planned timeline,” said Bijay Jaisi, Head of the Development Assistance Implementation Division under the Road Department.
The project faced some delays due to local demands, but work resumed after an agreement was reached. Construction operates 24/7 with 8-hour shifts and utilizes the “Drill and Blast Method.”
Once complete, the tunnel will include lighting, oxygen connections, and road slope work. A flyover and additional roads are also under construction. The main goal is to ease traffic congestion on the Nagdhunga uphill. While most vehicles will be allowed, restrictions will apply to those carrying petroleum products, motorcycles, and overloaded vehicles.
