Construction at the Nagdhunga Tunnel Project resumed on Sunday, April 13, following a 28-day suspension triggered by protests from locals on the Dhading side of the project site. Security personnel from Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted progress in the coming days.

The work had come to a halt on March 18 after local residents obstructed operations, demanding long-term guarantees of free drinking water and other community benefits. According to Project Chief Sanjay Panthi, around 80 security personnel have been stationed at the site to prevent further disruptions. 

“Negotiations with the locals are ongoing,” Panthi told Aarthik Abhiyan, the sister publication of New Business Age. “Until a resolution is reached, we will continue construction under security protection.”

Authorities decided to deploy security forces after repeated attempts to mediate with local communities failed and led to prolonged work stoppages. The project is currently focused on tunnel interior works and constructing structures to prevent landslides.

Initiated in 2019, the 2.5-kilometre tunnel project has so far achieved approximately 88% overall progress. However, recurring local protests—centered on demands for compensation and infrastructure benefits—have caused significant delays.

In response to these ongoing challenges, the Department of Roads had earlier sought support from the Ministries of Physical Infrastructure, Drinking Water, and Home Affairs to address community concerns.

The project deadline has already been extended to October 2025. Being constructed by Japan’s Hazama Ando Corporation, the Nagdhunga Tunnel is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion on the western entry point to the Kathmandu Valley.

The foundation stone was laid in October 2019, with an initial completion target of 42 months. A major milestone was achieved on April 15, 2024, with the successful breakthrough of the main tunnel.

Local residents had previously staged protests demanding fair compensation for land and properties allegedly damaged during construction.