Nepal Inaugurates Its First Modern Road Tunnel at Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola

Nepal has officially inaugurated the Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel, marking the launch of the country's first modern road tunnel project. The tunnel was inaugurated by Minister for Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal at a special ceremony attended by Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru and JICA President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka. Constructed with financial and technical assistance from the Government of Japan, the project is expected to become a major milestone in Nepal's infrastructure development and significantly improve connectivity between Kathmandu and Dhading. Although the tunnel has been formally opened, it will not be immediately accessible to all vehicles. According to Project Deputy Director Sanjay Panthi, only ambulances, fire engines, security vehicles, and other essential service vehicles will be allowed to use the tunnel during the initial phase. The project has designated the next three months as a trial operation period, during which authorities will closely assess traffic management and safety systems inside the tunnel. Public access for other vehicles will be introduced gradually after the successful completion of the trial period and confirmation that all safety standards have been met.