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🇳🇵 Nepal /Energy & Infrastructure

Dhankhola–Lamahi road upgrade begins under MCC Nepal Compact

From Kathmandu Post · (4m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Construction has begun on the 40-kilometer Dhankhola–Lamahi road section in Nepal, a key infrastructure project under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact.
  • The upgrade will utilize advanced technologies like Full Depth Reclamation and Superpave asphalt to enhance durability and reduce maintenance costs, widening the carriageway and shoulders.
  • The project, funded by MCC and the Nepali government, aims to improve road safety, support local businesses, and boost economic opportunities through enhanced connectivity.

The commencement of the Dhankhola–Lamahi road upgrade marks a significant step forward in Nepal's infrastructure development, bolstered by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact. Lumbini Province Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya's participation in the foundation stone laying ceremony underscores the project's importance at the provincial level. The adoption of advanced construction technologies, such as Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) and Superpave asphalt, signals a commitment to quality and long-term sustainability, promising not only improved road conditions but also environmental benefits through material recycling.

This project represents much more than a single investment. It reflects the strength of our bilateral relationship and our shared commitment to delivering tangible results for the people of Nepal and American businesses working here through the Compact.

— Scott UrbomUS Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Scott Urbom speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony, emphasizing the broader significance of the project.

This initiative is more than just a road project; it represents a tangible outcome of the strong bilateral relationship between Nepal and the United States. As US Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Scott Urbom highlighted, the MCC Nepal Compact is a substantial joint investment aimed at reducing transport costs, enhancing road safety, and strengthening the power sector. For Nepal, this translates into expanded economic opportunities, particularly for local businesses and agriculture, by improving connectivity across the East-West Highway.

The use of modern technology is a positive step toward improving infrastructure quality. He said the upgraded road will make travel safer and more reliable while supporting local businesses, agriculture and entrepreneurship.

— Chet Narayan AcharyaLumbini Province Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya speaking at the ceremony about the benefits of the road upgrade.

The project's timely and quality completion is paramount, and the involvement of local construction firms like Sharma–Kumar JV, with a clear timeline and budget, provides confidence. The $208 million investment, excluding VAT, is a substantial commitment that aligns with Nepal's own development plans, as noted by Sushil Babu Dhakal from the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport. The focus on modern techniques and the collaborative spirit between the Nepali government and the US through MCA-Nepal are crucial for realizing the full potential of this vital infrastructure upgrade.

MCA-Nepal’s investment complements government plans and will help expand economic opportunities through improved connectivity.

— Sushil Babu DhakalJoint secretary at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport commenting on how the project aligns with national development goals.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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