A run through Nepal’s first road tunnel

Nepal celebrated a milestone in its infrastructure development with a public "Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run and Walk" event on Saturday. This marks the first public access to the Nagdhunga-Sisnekhola tunnel, the country's inaugural road tunnel, ahead of its official opening.

The tunnel's trial operations are scheduled to commence on July 27, with a formal inauguration planned shortly after. The project experienced several months of delays due to technical and administrative issues after construction was completed nearly a year ago. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a key development partner, is expected to send representatives to the inauguration ceremony.

Officials have finalized toll rates for vehicles using the tunnel. Cars and vans will face charges of Rs65 when entering Kathmandu and Rs60 when exiting. Mini-buses, light trucks, and tippers will be charged Rs115 inbound and Rs80 outbound. For buses and heavy trucks, the toll will be Rs260 to enter the capital and Rs200 to leave. The Nagdhunga-Sisnekhola Tunnel Road Operation Directive, 2024, explicitly prohibits pedestrians, motorcycles, three-wheelers, and other non-motorized vehicles from using the tunnel, limiting access to eligible motor vehicles.