PM consults with locals to resolve disputes about Kathmandu-Tarai Expressway

Kathmandu, June 9: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has discussed with the local residents and their representatives from Khokana and Bungmati regarding the disputes and resolution concerned with the initial point of the Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Expressway.     

Coordinator of Local People's Concerns Committee Nepal Dangol and other representatives met the PM and provided with their suggestions as an alternative way to resolve the dispute.     

The Committee has offered an alternative to shift the starting point of the Expressway to Dukuchhap, which would also help resolve the dispute and would preserve the civilization and cultures of Khokana too.     

On the occasion, Prime Minister Oli shared with the local leaders that he would once visit the site to help resolve the dispute before reaching a decision and made it clear that the government had no intention to carry out development works by inflicting any harm to the local community.     

Defence Secretary Rameshwor Dangal, officials of the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, and representatives from the Nepali Army were also present in the meeting.     

Earlier on February 5, PM Oli had also discussed about the progress and the challenges of the project by inviting Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal, Minister for Defence Man Bir Rai, PM's Economic Affairs Advisor Dr Yubraj Khatiwada, Chief of Army Staff Ashokraj Sigdel and other officials.     

The Expressway with the total length of 70.97 kms is estimated to cost Rs 211.93 billion and scheduled to be completed by mid-April 2026.(RSS)