Secretary Sigdel: Nagdhunga Tunnel Marks New Era in Nepal's Infrastructure Development

Kathmandu. Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Gopal Prasad Sigdel, has stated that with the operation of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, a new chapter of modern infrastructure development has begun in Nepal.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, he clarified that it has been successful to bring a tunnel into operation in Nepal despite difficult geographical conditions.

He stated that Nepal can successfully construct ambitious infrastructure projects if there is political will, technical cooperation, and patience. He mentioned that this is just the beginning of tunnel infrastructure development in Nepal and such projects will be further expanded in the coming days. Secretary Sigdel expressed his belief that through tunnel construction, Nepali technical manpower has gained experience in constructing Himalayan tunnels, and this will significantly contribute to other tunnels and infrastructure projects to be operated across the country in the future.

He mentioned that during the tunnel construction, Nepali and Japanese engineers worked together amidst challenges related to geological complexity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Himalayan geological structure, successfully completing the project. 'Despite difficult geographical conditions, Nepal can successfully construct ambitious projects if there is political will and technical cooperation,' he said, 'This is the first tunnel, but not the last.'

He informed that with the operation of the Nagdhunga Tunnel, the journey between Sisnekhola and Balambu will now be completed in a few minutes. He stated that travelers will now get relief from the jam, sharp turns, and landslide risks that they have been facing for years. He recalled that although Nagdhunga Pass has long been known as the western entrance to the Kathmandu Valley, it has been one of the most congested and risky sections of the national road network.

Secretary Sigdel expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for the cooperation provided in the construction of the project. He mentioned that the ministry is committed to the safe operation, regular maintenance, and transparent management of the tunnel, and expressed confidence that the Nepali people will benefit from it in the long term.