KATHMANDU: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is set to provide approximately Rs 47 billion for the expansion and improvement of three major highways in Nepal. The funding, totaling USD 305 million, comprises USD 285 million in loans and USD 20 million in grants, according to the Department of Roads.

The projects include the expansion of the Narayanghat-Hetauda section of the East-West Highway, the Mugling-Aanbukhaireni section of the Prithvi Highway, and safety improvements on the Karnali Highway. Project Director Chudaraj Dhakal stated that USD 245 million is allocated for the Narayanghat-Hetauda section, USD 30 million for the Mugling-Aanbukhaireni stretch, and USD 10 million for the Karnali Highway. The loan agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the ADB is scheduled for November.

The 70-kilometer Narayanghat-Hetauda section is being upgraded to four lanes, with the bidding process already underway. A 2-kilometer viaduct will be constructed in the Tikoli forest area to facilitate wildlife movement, for which the ADB has pledged a USD 20 million grant.

Meanwhile, the bidding for the Mugling-Aanbukhaireni section is pending ADB approval of the bid documents. Due to geographical constraints and the presence of the Marsyangdi Hydropower station, the project involves expanding roads on both sides of the river. The cabinet has already approved the new alignment for the route.

Additionally, the USD 10 million loan for the Karnali Highway will be used to enhance road safety along a 73-kilometer stretch. Improvements will include road widening, curve corrections, and the installation of safety barriers. The government initiated the request for this funding to upgrade the 682-kilometer highway, which is considered one of the most challenging routes in the country.