Kathmandu-The long-awaited Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel is set to officially come into operation on Monday, marking the completion of Nepal's first road tunnel project after 79 months of construction.

The project has been handed over to the Government of Nepal by the Japanese contractor, Hazma Endo Corporation, following the completion of construction.

The tunnel features a 2,688-meter main tunnel and a 2,557-meter emergency tunnel. The total project cost stands at approximately Rs. 27.5 billion, including a concessional loan of around Rs. 21.5 billion from the Government of Japan and an investment of about Rs. 6 billion from the Government of Nepal.

The operation and management of the tunnel have been entrusted to Yusin-ART JV, a joint venture between China's Yusin and Nepal's ART. Under a five-year agreement, the company will oversee tunnel operations, maintenance, traffic management, emergency response, toll collection, and the upkeep of the 2.8-kilometer access road connecting both sides of the tunnel.

Construction of the tunnel began on Kartik 4, 2076 (October 21, 2019). Although the original contract required completion within 42 months, the project was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, local disruptions, and technical challenges.

The contractor formally handed over the project in Jestha. Under the agreement, Hazma Endo Corporation will remain responsible for repairing any technical defects identified within one year of the handover at its own expense.

According to the Department of Roads, only ambulances, fire engines, and emergency vehicles operated by security agencies will be permitted to use the tunnel immediately after its inauguration.

Motorcycles and vehicles carrying flammable or explosive materials will not be allowed to pass through the tunnel.

The project was implemented by the Department of Roads under the Bill of Quantity (BOQ) modality, with Japanese consultants providing design and supervision support.

A fully digital toll collection system will also be introduced for tunnel users. The system will utilize N-Tag and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enable electronic toll payments.