820 kilometers of road blacktopped, 222 bridges constructed

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 17: In the last fiscal year, the government blacktopped  820 kilometers of roads and erected 222 bridges nationwide.

The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport reported that during the same period, 249 kilometers of roads were reconstructed, and an additional 243 kilometers of new roads were built. Despite setting a target of maintaining 761 kilometers of roads, only 538 kilometers underwent periodic repairs.

Keshav Kumar Sharma, Secretary at the Ministry, stated that the Department of Roads managed to achieve approximately 69 percent progress despite facing various challenges. Sushi Babu Dhakal, Director General of the Department, acknowledged that the anticipated progress in the infrastructure sector was not fully met. Although the Department aimed for 80 percent progress, it fell short of this target.

Notably, national pride projects demonstrated satisfactory progress. Activities to upgrade the Nagdhunga-Naubise road section were ongoing, and contract management for the Kakadvitta-Laukahi road's upgrade along the East-West highway had reached its final phase.

Construction has commenced on the Mulghat-Subhangkhola section along the Tamor corridor, and a flyover is under construction at Gwarko. The Department also sought consent for multi-year contracts and resource guarantees for the construction of flyovers at Satdobato and Ekantakuna. Additionally, work is underway on the Suryabinayak-Dhulikhel road along the Araniko highway.