BP Highway reconstruction continues as flood damage repairs drag on

Reconstruction of Nepal's BP Highway, damaged by the September 2024 floods, continues with a focus on raising the road up to eight meters above the riverbed to prevent future damage. Embankments are being built as part of the ongoing work.

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There is no problem in operating from the new track, but since flood issues have not started, vehicles are running through the diversion.

The Road Division Office in Bhaktapur had initially planned to open a new track for vehicular traffic by late June to ensure uninterrupted movement during the monsoon. However, vehicles are currently navigating a diversion because significant flood risks have not yet emerged, according to Suman Yogesh, chief of the office. "There is no problem in operating from the new track, but since flood issues have not started, vehicles are running through the diversion," Yogesh stated. "Construction on the new track will continue until floods create disruption."

Work on a crucial 3.2 km section funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has not yet commenced. JICA has laid the foundation stone for this Piple–Barkhekhola segment, which will be upgraded into a two-lane road. Construction is slated to begin after the monsoon, with an estimated completion by November-December 2027, supported by a Japanese grant of Rs2.6 billion. Shimizu Corporation of Japan has been awarded the contract for this project.

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Construction on the new track will continue until floods create disruption.

Temporary flood-resilient measures, such as placing large stones along the riverbank and laying gravel, are in place for the JICA-funded section. Machinery is stationed at various points for immediate traffic restoration if flooding occurs. "No permanent structure has been started in the JICA-funded section, and there is still a risk of flooding," Yogesh noted. "It is a short stretch, and we have already arranged machinery to respond immediately if problems arise."

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No permanent structure has been started in the JICA-funded section, and there is still a risk of flooding.

Permanent road construction, utilizing reinforced cement concrete, plum concrete, and masonry walls, is progressing in other sections, including Katunje Ghumaune, Chaukidanda, Narke, Dalabesi, Piple, Chiuribas, and Mangalatar. Drainage and culvert construction are also complete in several areas. "The road is being built at a height of eight metres above the riverbed. We have already completed sections where vehicles can safely operate at a height of around three and a half metres without flood disruption," Yogesh explained. "Work will continue during the monsoon unless problems arise. If flooding occurs, work will be halted, and traffic will be diverted to the new track."

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It is a short stretch, and we have already arranged machinery to respond immediately if problems arise.