KATHMANDU: The expansion of the 16-kilometer Suryabinayak–Dhulikhel section of the Araniko Highway remains incomplete even three years after work began, leaving daily commuters and local residents struggling with dust, mud, and persistent traffic congestion.

The project, aimed at upgrading the stretch from Suryabinayak in Bhaktapur to Dhulikhel in Kavrepalanchowk into a six-lane roadway, is being carried out in two segments—Suryabinayak–Sanga and Sanga–Dhulikhel. Officials say overall physical progress has reached around 70 percent, up from 67 percent a few months ago and about 50 percent earlier.

Construction is currently underway on main roads, service lanes, drains, bridges, culverts, and underpasses, with the underpass at Sanga emerging as a key component expected to ease traffic flow toward Kathmandu from the eastern border.

However, the project has faced repeated delays due to shortages of construction materials, rising costs, monsoon-related disruptions, and delays in relocating utilities such as electricity poles and water pipelines. Although the contract initially set a 36-month completion timeline, meeting the deadline now appears unlikely.

Road works are ongoing in several areas including Suryabinayak, Jagati, Thimi, Nalinchowk, Sanga, and Banepa. While some sections have been blacktopped and appear improved, many stretches remain dug up, causing severe inconvenience. Locals have also reported health issues linked to dust pollution, which worsens during dry weather and turns into mud during rainfall.

Once completed, the upgraded highway is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Kathmandu Valley and eastern Nepal, reduce travel time, and ease congestion on a route vital for trade and tourism. However, authorities acknowledge that delays and construction challenges are likely to continue affecting commuters in the near term.

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