Siddhababa tunnel to reduce landslide risks

By Our Correspondent, Bhairahawa, May 26: The Siddhababa section of the Siddhartha Highway, long considered a dangerous route due to frequent landslides and rockfalls, is gradually becoming safer with the construction of the Siddhababa Tunnel. 

The project has achieved 68 per cent physical progress and aims to begin vehicle operations through the tunnel by September.

The tunnel project has been prioritised by the federal government as a National Pride Project.

According to project chief Rajesh Poudel, financial progress has reached 58 per cent so far. 

The five-year project is being implemented under the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, under which the construction company is responsible for both design and construction. Preparations are underway to allow vehicles to pass through the tunnel from September.

Once operational, the construction company will remain responsible for the operation, maintenance and security of the tunnel for five years. This will be followed by an additional five-year latent defect liability period.

Every monsoon season, the Siddhababa area faces recurring landslides, road blockages and human casualties.  

The project states that the main purpose of the tunnel is not to shorten travel distance but to provide a safer route for travellers.

The project initially faced legal and technical difficulties. Since the EPC model was being used in Nepal for the first time, documentation problems arose. 

Delays in tree-felling permits, budget management and milestone adjustments also slowed construction. However, most of these issues are now being resolved. Construction of the approach road is also progressing. Approval has already been granted for rigid pavement on the main road section, while rock sheds and cliff protection work will be carried out in high-risk areas after the tunnel comes into operation. 

Safe pedestrian pathways inside the rock sheds and drinking water facilities are also planned. The project, initially estimated to cost around Rs. 10 billion, was later contracted for approximately Rs. 7 billion through a competitive bidding process. 

Once completed, the travel along the Butwal–Palpa road section is expected to become much safer and more reliable.

A few days ago, Nepal’s Minister for Infrastructure and Development, Sunil Lamsal, conducted an on-site inspection of the tunnel project.