Recent floods and landslides triggered by monsoon rains on September 27-28 caused significant loss of life and property, including severe damage to the country’s road infrastructure. The government has pledged to focus on restoring damaged roadways, even temporarily, to ensure the country’s transportation network functions during the upcoming Dashain festival.
Speaking to the RSS, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, emphasized the government's commitment to handling the post-disaster situation. He highlighted the ongoing rescue efforts and gave assurance that restoring vital road links is a top priority.
Approximately 600 vehicles remain stranded along the BP Highway, with drivers and their assistants facing dangerous conditions and awaiting rescue. While emergency rescue operations have been carried out, the government continues to address the situation. Additionally, around 600 containers are stuck in Tatopani along the Araniko Highway.
Minister Dahal also noted that the government is working on resettling displaced families and providing compensation to those affected by the disaster. Estimates suggest that restoring the damaged road infrastructure will cost Rs 20-25 billion, with temporary repairs expected to cost Rs 2-3 billion. In light of Dashain, the government plans to temporarily reopen sections of the BP Highway that are currently blocked.
Preliminary assessments indicate that five major bridges have collapsed, and five significant highways have been disrupted. The government will conduct a full evaluation of the damage and begin the restoration process, though reconstruction efforts will take time. However, the reopening of blocked roadways is expected to be expedited.
Restoring the BP Highway poses a particular challenge due to extensive damage caused by the Roshi River, which washed away a 12-kilometer section of the road. While the complete restoration may take time, efforts are underway to temporarily repair the highway.
Need for Regulating Crusher Industries and Maintaining Road Standards
Minister Dahal also called for better regulation of crusher industries, stressing the need to systematize their operations to minimize environmental damage. He urged local levels to adhere to road construction standards and ensure that development projects are environmentally friendly.
Addressing questions on tunnel routes, the minister highlighted the importance of tunneling in Nepal’s road infrastructure. He pointed out that the Nagdhunga Tunnel has proven beneficial in shortening travel distances and overcoming challenges. Similar tunnel projects are planned, including along the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track, to promote environmental balance and improve transportation efficiency.
Railway Service and Other Infrastructure Projects
When asked about the necessity of a railway network in Nepal, Minister Dahal acknowledged that the relevance of such a service is still being evaluated. However, he emphasized the importance of an East-West Railway for enhancing connectivity and trade with South Asia, adding that it would complement other infrastructure projects such as the Postal Highway, Madan Bhandari Highway, and Mid-Hill Highway.
Minister Dahal also cited progress in the transport sector, including the implementation of smart driving licenses and embossed number plates. He advocated for delegating authority to the provinces for printing and distributing licenses and number plates.
Promoting Road Safety and Paying Contractors
The drafting of the Road Safety Act is nearing completion, according to the minister, who stressed the need to identify and address the root causes of road accidents—whether due to drivers’ negligence, road conditions, or vehicle issues.
Minister Dahal further assured that the government is committed to clearing dues of construction companies. Despite some procedural challenges, he stated that around Rs 3 billion in outstanding payments will be settled within a month.
The government’s top priority is to accelerate ongoing projects, particularly those directly affecting the lives of citizens. These include upgrading the Nagdhunga-Pokhara route, completing the Narayangadh-Butwal section, fully operating the Postal Highway, finishing the Madan Bhandari Highway, and advancing roads under the North-South Corridor. -- RSS
