काँकरभिट्टा–लौकही
BHADRAPUR (JHAPA), October 3.
Under the Asian Highway project aimed at connecting Eastern Nepal’s major trade route to the international road network, 52 percent of blacktopping work has been completed on the eastern section of the Kakarbhitta–Laukahi road.
With approximately four months remaining before the completion deadline specified in the construction agreement, the project aims to finish 90 percent of the work within the stipulated time frame. According to Project Chief Sunil Babu Panta, blacktopping is currently progressing at a rate of 700 to 800 meters daily. “There are still four months remaining. We target achieving 90 percent progress by that time,” he stated.
However, progress on bridge construction remains relatively lower compared to road works. According to Project Chief Panta, the overall progress in bridge construction currently stands at 31 percent. In the eastern section, 21 bridges are under construction, including major structures over 300 meters long over the Ninda, Biring, and Kankai rivers. Similarly, bridge construction is moving ahead rapidly in the western section across the Ratuwa, Bakraha, and Lohandra rivers.
Under this project, the construction of most small culverts has already been completed, while road upgrading, bridge construction, and overpass construction are being carried out simultaneously. Plans are in place to construct motorable overpasses at Charaali Chowk, Birtamode, and Charpane in the eastern section. Additionally, an underpass for elephants and six pedestrian crossings will be built in the forest area of Charaali.
The road construction and upgrading efforts are being executed with loan assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). A contract agreement worth NPR 10.06 billion (NPR 10,06,94,00,000) has been signed for upgrading the 45-kilometer Kakarbhitta–Sitapuri stretch under the eastern section.
— National News Agency (RSS)
