PM Oli Reviews Progress of Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has inquired about the progress of the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Expressway, a national pride project, seeking updates on the challenges and potential solutions hindering its completion.

During a high-level discussion, PM Oli met with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, PM’s Economic Advisor Dr. Yubraj Khatiwada, Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel, and other senior officials at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.

The Nepali Army, which is overseeing the expressway’s construction, briefed the meeting on key issues, including land acquisition delays in Khokana, the project’s starting point on the southern outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, and pending clearance of trees in the project area.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, PM Oli stated that there would be no compromise in the project’s construction as the Nepali Army is responsible for its execution. He directed concerned ministries to submit proposals to resolve land acquisition challenges in Khokana.

The 70.97 km fast track project, launched in 2074 BS with an estimated cost of Rs 211.93 billion, is targeted for completion by Chaitra 2083 BS. However, current progress stands at 37.6% physical completion and 39.74% financial expenditure.