The government has decided to partially close the Nagdhunga–Naubise–Malekhu road section after construction progress fell short of expectations. Although the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport recently met with stakeholders and committed to resolving problems, it concluded that continuous vehicle movement has been slowing down the construction work.
Construction contractors and project officials reported that the constant flow of traffic has prevented the project from gaining momentum. To ensure effective traffic management and accelerate the construction work, authorities have decided to close the road for five hours daily—from Mangsir 24 to Poush 1. Kathmandu and Dhading District Administration Offices have jointly issued a notice confirming the temporary closure.
The Tribhuvan Highway section from Nagdhunga to Naubise is in its final phase of upgrading and blacktopping. In Kathmandu district, the Nagdhunga–Piplamod stretch has been prioritized due to its narrow width and the need to deploy heavy equipment and transport vehicles at once. Likewise, the Galchi–Gajuri section in Dhading is also narrow and risky, requiring road widening work in the Pokharebheer area.
According to the notice, vehicle movement will be halted from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily along the Nagdhunga–Piplamod and Pokharebheer areas from Mangsir 24 to Poush 1. Travelers are requested to use alternative routes or manage their travel time before or after the closure.
During the closure, vehicles heading from Kathmandu to Naubise will be stopped at the Nagdhunga checkpost. Essential vehicles such as ambulances, security vehicles, fire trucks, and hearses will be allowed to pass with traffic police coordination.
Vehicles coming from Muglin toward Kathmandu will be halted at Khani Khola (Naubise), Junge Khola (Thakre), and at Galchi, Baireni, and Mastar along the Galchi–Gajuri stretch. Small and medium vehicles may use alternative routes in case of emergency.
Alternative routes suggested include:
- Sitapaila–Bhindhunga–Ramkot–Dharke Road
- Samakhushi–Tokha–Chhahare Road
All halted vehicles will be allowed to move again after 3:30 PM, according to the notice.
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