Kathmandu, Nov 13: The House of Representatives’ State System and Good Governance Committee expressed confidence in the timely completion of the Kathmandu-Terai-Madhes Expressway. Following an on-site inspection, the parliamentary team, led by Committee Chair Ramhari Khatiwada, concluded that the project’s progress exceeds expectations.

Chairman Khatiwada praised the ongoing efforts, noting, “The Nepali Army is working tirelessly to ensure the project is completed on schedule. Any challenges can be addressed through discussions. The work so far has been commendable.” He emphasized that timely completion of major projects like this would significantly contribute to the nation’s prosperity.

The expressway, managed by the Nepali Army since 2074, aims for completion by March 2083. Spanning 70.977 km, it connects Khokna in Lalitpur to Nijgarh in Bara. The expressway includes:
– Six tunnels (10.309 km)
– 89 bridges (12.885 km total length)
– Road widths of 25 meters in hilly areas and 27 meters in the Terai
– Rest stops at Budune, along with interchanges and toll plazas at Khokna, Budune, and Nijgarh

So far, Rs. 64.62 billion has been spent on the project, which adheres to Asian road standards.

MP Chitra Bahadur KC noted that the progress on-site differed positively from initial expectations. “While discussions in Kathmandu set certain expectations, the ground reality reflects significant progress. Efforts must continue to ensure timely completion,” he stated.

The expressway, a pride project, is anticipated to greatly enhance connectivity and economic growth in Nepal.