Kathmandu: The Government has announced that the Nagdhunga-Sisneri tunnel road will be opened for passenger vehicles exiting the Kathmandu Valley on the eve of the Bada Dashain festival. Additionally, public transport vehicles will be permitted to use the tunnel road to enter Kathmandu after the festival.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the decision was made by Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Kulman Ghising, following a meeting with stakeholders at his office. The discussion centered on improving traffic management and road safety during the festive period.
Minister Ghising also instructed relevant authorities to provide continuous updates on road conditions to passengers, addressing their grievances promptly. The meeting further resolved to request the Ministry of Home Affairs to direct Nepal Police to increase patrols and personnel, enhancing security at the New Bus Park in Kathmandu Valley and on various highways nationwide.
Moreover, it was decided that heavy goods carrier vehicles, specifically those with 12 wheels and above, would be prohibited from operating on the Daunne section of the Butwal-Narayanghat road during the Dashain festival.
The Department of Roads has been tasked with maintaining and improving major roads across the country. This includes managing tools and equipment for landslide incidents, ensuring 24-hour two-way traffic on the Daunne section, clearing landslide obstructions on the Narayangadh-Muglin road, and reopening the main road connecting the Tatopani checkpoint before Dashain.
Additionally, the Department of Roads will appoint a focal person to manage road safety and conditions around the clock. Present at the meeting were the Secretary at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, the Director General of the Department of Transport Management, the Director General of the Department of Roads, Nepal Police, and representatives from the National Federation of Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs.