Construction of Kalanki-Basundhara section to begin after Dashain

The second phase of the Kalanki-Basundhara section of the Kathmandu Ring Road improvement project is set to begin after Dashain, according to project chief Ashika Pokharel.

The Chinese side has completed the tender process in China and is preparing to start the construction work, Pokharel said. The Nepali side has already completed about 80% of the service lane construction outside the main expressway.

The Chinese side has submitted the preliminary design for the main expressway construction, and the Nepali side has provided the necessary feedback and comments. The final design is expected to be submitted soon.

Delays and Challenges

Pokharel attributed the delay in the project to the time taken for site clearance and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project was initially expected to be completed within three to four years, but it has been delayed due to various reasons.

However, Pokharel expressed confidence that the construction process will move forward quickly once it begins. She also assured that the Chinese side is committed to completing the project on time.

Cost and Complexity

The initial estimated cost of the project was around Rs 12 billion, but it is expected to increase due to inflation and design changes. The revised cost will be finalized once the final design is submitted.

Pokharel acknowledged that the second phase of the project may face some challenges, but the team is working to address them proactively. She requested the public to be patient and cooperate with the construction work, which may cause some inconvenience in the short term.