Kathmandu-Hetauda Tunnel construction Begins

The much awaited Kathmandu-Kulekhani-Hetauda tunnel road construction has begun recently.  Nepal Purbadhar Bikas Company Limited (NPBCL) , which has been entrusted with the responsibility to construct the tunnel road, initiated the construction from Bhimphedi, Chairperson of the company Kush Kumar Joshi said. “Due to election code of conduct, pre-planned formal programme for starting the construction could not be carried,” Joshi said. The project is expected to complete by the end of 2016. 

 

The project has received an initial investment commitment of Rs 5 billionfrom various investors. Joshi believes that the investment will increase with the progress in the tunnel construction. “Once the construction work progresses, belief in this project will strengthen and it will assure investors,” Joshi said adding that the company is looking forward to implement the project as envisioned. 

 

This Rs 34.50 billion project is being implemented through public-private partnership (PPP). Though this project is based on BOOT model, it will be funded by the local authorities also.  The tunnel belongs not to a person or a company; rather, it is the public’s property, Joshi said adding, “If this project is completed successfully, the private sector will fund other infrastructural activities as well.”

 

The funding required for this project will be collected through company’s founders, shareholders, industrialists, engineers, technicians, local people, government authority and various institutions. The project also looks forward to get investment from NRNs.