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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ต Nepal /Energy & Infrastructure

One-way concreting completed on eastern Daunne section of Mahendra Highway

From Kathmandu Post · (5m ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • One-way concreting is complete on a 3.9-kilometer section of the eastern Daunne stretch of Nepal's Mahendra Highway.
  • The Chinese contractor China State Construction Engineering Corporation is overseeing the 114-kilometer expansion project, which is approximately 85% complete.
  • Traffic is expected to resume fully on the Daunne stretch by mid-July, with the overall project deadline in the third week of July.

The Mahendra Highway expansion project, a significant infrastructure undertaking in Nepal, is progressing steadily. The recent completion of one-way concreting on the eastern Daunne section marks a key milestone. This development, overseen by Chinese contractor China State Construction Engineering Corporation, is part of a larger 114-kilometer upgrade aimed at improving connectivity across the country.

While the project is nearing its July deadline, with around 85% of the work finished, challenges remain. The Daunne stretch itself, particularly the western section, has seen some delays, though officials are confident in meeting the mid-July target for full traffic operation. The prioritization of concrete surfacing in areas prone to water seepage highlights a focus on durability and long-term resilience.

From Nepal's perspective, such infrastructure projects are vital for national development and economic growth. The involvement of international contractors, like the Chinese firm here, is common, reflecting global partnerships in development. However, the progress and potential delays also underscore the complexities of managing large-scale construction, especially within the context of Nepal's diverse terrain and weather patterns. The successful completion of this section is a positive step towards enhancing transportation efficiency and supporting trade.

concreting of the remaining portion will be completed within 15 days.

โ€” Pashupati GyawaliChief of the Daunne section, commenting on the unfinished roadwork.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.