KATHMANDU: The Nepal Army, the country’s primary security organization, has completed 32 strategically important road projects, officials report.

Manoj Thapa, Director of Military Operations Department, stated that the army has opened over 1,400 kilometers of “pilot tracks” and handed them over to the government.

As part of these initiatives, the Karnali Corridor—a national pride project—was connected to the national road network in Humla after the installation of a Bailey bridge at Chuwa Khola in Kharpunath, with significant contribution from the Nepal Army.

Currently, the army is constructing over 274 kilometers of roads across five projects, including Khandbari–Kimathangkaa, Karnali Corridor, Benighat–Arughat–Larkhebanjyang, and Darchula–Tinkar.

Director Thapa emphasized that the army is prioritizing the timely completion of these nationally significant projects.

Work is also progressing rapidly on the Kathmandu–Terai Madhesh Fast Track under the army’s management.
The army assumed responsibility for this road in May 2017, but the project start was delayed due to the time taken for Detailed Project Report (DPR) approval.

Project Director Dharmendra Kumar Jha stated that the total length of the highway is 70.977 kilometers, with physical progress at 43% and financial progress at 44.72%.

The highway will include over 87 bridges, some of which will reach a height of 82 meters. Several of these bridges are already in the final construction stage.

The project is expected to be completed by mid-April, 2026, within the preliminary estimated cost of Rs 213 billion.
Once completed, this highway will provide a direct, shorter connection between the Kathmandu Valley and the mid-Terai, significantly reducing transportation costs and time for goods and contributing substantially to the country’s economic development.

Of the seven tunnels along the route, two have been pierced, two are under construction, and the portal work of three is ongoing.

Director Jha stated that the army is making special efforts to complete the project as per the set targets.