Nagdhunga road tunnel opens to private vehicles

Nepal's Nagdhunga tunnel, the country's first modern road tunnel, is now open to private vehicles, offering a new route between Kathmandu and Dhading. The facility, inaugurated on July 27, had initially been restricted to emergency vehicles since its opening.

Authorities have commenced a trial operation, allowing cars, jeeps, and vans with up to nine seats to use the tunnel. Deputy chief of the Nagdhunga Tunnel Road Safety Unit, Kabiraj Shrestha, stated that the plan is to gradually permit more vehicle categories after evaluating the initial phase. "We have started operations on a trial basis. We will analyze the situation this week and collect feedback from drivers about the difficulties and experiences they face while driving through the tunnel," Shrestha said. Private vehicles will not be charged during this trial period, and the tunnel will operate from 9 am to 6 pm.

Strict traffic regulations are in place within the tunnel, including a speed limit of 40 kilometers per hour, mandatory use of headlights, a prohibition on stopping, and no overtaking. The safety unit and toll collection team are preparing for full-scale operations, with CCTV systems monitoring activities. The tunnel, built at a cost of around Rs29 billion, began construction seven years ago and experienced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and compensation disputes. The main tunnel's breakthrough was achieved on June 17, 2024, following the emergency tunnel's breakthrough in August 2023. Pedestrians, two-wheelers, and vehicles carrying flammable materials are prohibited from entering. Tolls will be implemented for regular operations, with charges varying by vehicle type.

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We have started operations on a trial basis. We will analyse the situation this week and collect feedback from drivers about the difficulties and experiences they face while driving through the tunnel.