The Nagdhunga–Naubise Tunnel Road, one of Nepal’s most significant infrastructure projects, is being prepared for public operation from Shrawan (mid-July to mid-August), with authorities intensifying final-stage preparations to ease traffic flow on the busy Kathmandu–Naubise corridor.

According to project officials, the tunnel is now in its final phase of operational readiness, with most internal construction work already completed. Project Director Saunya Nepal stated that only minor external works such as slope stabilization and landslide risk mitigation remain before full-scale traffic operation begins.

“Most of the tunnel works have been completed. We are currently conducting safety drills, including emergency response and rescue simulations in case of accidents,” he said. “Only the external landslide protection work is pending.”

The Nagdhunga–Naubise Tunnel spans a total length of 2,688 meters and is expected to significantly reduce travel time and traffic congestion on one of Nepal’s busiest highways. Originally scheduled for completion in April 2023, the project faced delays due to contractor inefficiencies and local-level obstructions.

Authorities have also begun preparations for toll collection and operational management. The process of selecting a banking partner and printing toll cards is already underway. The tunnel will support multiple payment systems, including manual cash collection, QR code-based digital payments, and automatic RFID sticker-based vehicle identification systems.

For operation and maintenance, Yushin ART Company has been awarded the contract worth Rs. 1.10 billion for a five-year period. The company will be responsible for full-time operation, maintenance, and management of the tunnel, ensuring 24-hour service throughout the year.

Approximately 150 personnel will be deployed for tunnel operations, with up to 40 staff members active during peak traffic hours. Officials expect that around 60% of vehicles passing through the Nagdhunga–Naubise corridor will use the tunnel once it becomes operational. However, two-wheelers will not be allowed inside the tunnel.

Traffic projections show that more than 8,000 vehicles daily—excluding two-wheelers—currently pass through the route, and the tunnel is expected to significantly reduce pressure on the existing highway.

The government has already finalized toll charges through a gazette notification. Fees vary depending on vehicle type and direction:

Light vehicles (cars, vans, pickups, microbuses): Rs. 60–65
Mini buses and mini trucks: Rs. 80–125
Buses and single rear axle trucks: Rs. 200–260
Heavy trucks and equipment: Rs. 250–600

With final preparations in progress, authorities aim to fully open the tunnel within Shrawan, marking a major milestone in Nepal’s modern road infrastructure development and promising improved travel efficiency between Kathmandu and the western highway network.

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