Araniko Highway, stretching from Suryabinayak in Bhaktapur to Dhulikhel in Kavre, is undergoing an expansion to six lanes. This project, which began nearly three years ago and covers 16 kilometers, has achieved 70% physical progress according to the Suryabinayak–Dhulikhel, Dhulikhel–Sindhuli–Bardibas Road Project.
However, construction between Suryabinayak and Dhulikhel has slowed over the past month and a half. The construction companies attribute this to rising costs, a shortage of materials, and market disruptions, which have hindered progress on the ambitious 15.8-kilometer expansion plan. Despite ongoing work, representatives from the construction company warn it may not be completed within the extended deadline.
In the Sangha–Dhulikhel section, about 70% of the work is finished. Previously, the project aimed to complete 90% by the end of the fiscal year, moving at a brisk pace. Rabindra Shrestha, manager at Lama Construction, mentioned that sharp increases in material costs have made resources scarce, slowing the project. Although work hasn’t stopped, maintaining previous momentum has proven difficult.
Shrestha called for the government to declare a ‘construction holiday’ and adjust prices to address these industry challenges. The attempt to import essential materials, including bitumen from India, has yet to succeed. Meanwhile, progress remains notably slow on the Suryabinayak to Sangha section, with only 48% completion reported.
During a visit, Deepak Gautam, head of the Kavrepalanchok District Coordination Committee, emphasized the need for preparedness as the monsoon season brings added risks to construction sites. He urged contractors and project leaders to ensure smooth traffic flow, minimize roadblocks, and mitigate potential damage.
Similarly, Kavrepalanchok Chief District Officer Gopal Adhikari instructed immediate management of dust during dry spells and mud and slipperiness in the rain, which burden commuters and locals.
Project Chief Vijay Kumar Mahato acknowledged current difficulties in meeting deadlines. Efforts are underway through government bodies to resolve supply issues and ensure the smooth import of bitumen from India.
The project’s completion timeline has been extended by one year since its previous December deadline to expedite ongoing work. The roadway, previously two lanes, is being expanded to six, including two service lanes and a 2.5-meter footpath. The road is divided into two sections: from Suryabinayak to Sangha and from Sangha to Dhulikhel, each under a separate contract.
The Sangha–Dhulikhel section contract was signed on December 11, 2022, with an expiration in December 2024. Lama Construction was awarded the contract for 4.0564 billion rupees, completing only 60% of the work within the allocated time.
Currently, in the Pulbazaar–Janagal area towards Banepa’s right side, 800 meters long and 10 meters wide blacktop has been completed, with blacktopping preparations for both lanes from Banepa to Sangha underway. In the Bashghari–Budol region, main lane cutting and graveled service lanes are progressing. Preparations are in place for culvert installation at Banepa’s Chandani Chowk, and wall construction and filling work continue in the Chandeshwari Khola area.
The second section, Suryabinayak–Sangha, involving a 7.5-kilometer expansion, was contracted for 3.8893 billion rupees. After the contract period ended in January, an extension was granted. The section’s task includes constructing retaining walls, drainage systems, and culverts currently in the final stages, although terrain challenges with large curves and steep cliffs complicate the work.
At Sangha, an underpass is under construction, and the Bhaktapur–Dhulikhel road project’s three bridges are advancing according to plan. Expectation holds that road expansion will streamline traffic management from Suryabinayak to Dhulikhel and bolster tourism development.
