Major road projects hit as West Asian crisis disrupts bitumen supply
Summary
A bitumen shortage caused by US-Iran tensions is halting asphalt works across Nepal, delaying major road projects including the Mid-Hill Highway and Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway during peak construction season.
Key Points
- Bitumen shortage due to US-Iran tensions has halted asphalt work on key national road projects in Nepal.
- Major highways affected include Mid-Hill Highway, Postal Highway, Koshi, Kaligandaki, Karnali Corridors, and Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway.
- Rising diesel and construction material costs worsen project delays amidst the approaching monsoon season.
- Officials warn that unless supply improves soon, annual road surfacing targets and project timelines will be missed, risking traffic disruption and landslides.
