Chinese firm to operate Nagdhunga tunnel despite Japanese reservations
Summary
A Chinese company has been selected to operate the nearly complete Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola tunnel in Nepal, despite earlier Japanese reservations. The tunnel is expected to open after final contract signing and trial operations, with the government setting toll rates and maintaining operational costs.
Key Points
- A Chinese-Nepali joint venture led by Yusin has been selected to operate the Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola tunnel after clearing technical and financial evaluations.
- The tunnel operation will last five years, with around 150 personnel undergoing training before the trial run scheduled for early May.
- The project is financed primarily by concessional loans from Japan and the Nepali government, with additional funding under consideration from Nepal’s Ministry of Finance.
- Toll rates have been set for various vehicle types, and restrictions prohibit pedestrians, two/three wheelers, and vehicles carrying inflammable materials inside the tunnel.
