Nepal’s road infrastructure is in a state of disrepair, troubled by delayed projects, poor construction quality, and a severe lack of maintenance. These issues are not only a source of daily frustration for the public but also have significant implications for safety, economic productivity, and national development. Today’s decision by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to use a helicopter instead of traveling by road to attend Kathmandu University’s graduation ceremony in Dhulikhel highlights the severity of these problems.
Delayed projects and poor quality control
One of the major challenges facing Nepal’s road infrastructure is the frequent delay in project completion. Numerous road projects across the country have been left unfinished due to various reasons, including bureaucratic red tape, lack of funding, and inefficient project management. For instance, the much-awaited Nagdhunga-Naubise tunnel road, which was expected to ease traffic congestion and reduce travel time, has faced multiple delays since its commencement. Similarly, the expansion of the Mugling-Narayanghat road, a critical artery linking Kathmandu with the southern plains, has been stalled repeatedly due to poor planning and execution.
Similar, delay is seen for the construction of Narayanghat-Butwal road – to a point that the contractor is now threatening the government instead of it needing to be the other way around for delayed work. It was supposed to be completed by March 2020 – however, more than 4 years since – the project is not even half complete. There are several other such examples including the ring road expansion plan in Kathmandu, Postal highway, Kathmandu-Tarai fast track, Pokhara regional international airport access road, and so many more as we look further that are severely delayed.
Even when projects are completed, they often deteriorate quickly due to substandard construction. The lack of quality control measures results in roads that are unable to withstand the wear and tear of heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. A striking example is the Koshi Highway, which, despite being recently completed in 2021, has developed large potholes and cracks, resulting in a significant hazard to motorists.
Road safety and its impact on lives
The poor state of Nepal’s roads has alarming consequences for public safety. The combination of inadequate infrastructure, lack of proper signage, and absence of regular maintenance contributes to frequent accidents and fatalities. The Prithvi Highway, for example, has seen numerous accidents due to its narrow lanes and lack of guardrails, making it one of the most dangerous roads in the country. Just last month, two bus accident due to Simaltal landslide which was also in-part credited to poor road planning resulted in multiple casualties and the 2 buses still not being discovered, highlighiting the urgent need for improvements.
The economic impact is also substantial. Poor road conditions lead to increased vehicle maintenance costs for drivers, as frequent repairs are needed to address damages caused by potholes and uneven surfaces. This not only affects individual car owners but also adds to the operational costs of businesses relying on road transportation, ultimately hampering economic growth.
The Prime Minister’s helicopter ride: A symbol of dysfunction
On a symbolic level, Prime Minister Oli’s decision to use a helicopter to reach Dhulikhel for the Kathmandu University graduation ceremony today speaks volumes about the state of Nepal’s road network. The expansion of the Kathmandu-Dhulikhel road has been ongoing for years, with little progress to show. The road, which should have facilitated smooth travel between these two locations, is sopilt by potholes and construction debris, making it virtually impassable in certain sections without great difficulty.
This situation forced the Prime Minister to opt for air travel, highlighting the lack of functional road infrastructure even near the capital city itself.
The incident also serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by ordinary Nepalis who do not have the luxury of helicopter travel. For them, navigating these dangerous roads is a daily reality that endangers their lives and affects their livelihoods.
Learning from global best practices
Nepal can learn valuable lessons from other countries that have successfully managed to build and maintain robust road networks despite similar geographical challenges. For instance, Bhutan, with its mountainous terrain, has invested significantly in road safety measures and quality control during construction. The country’s strict regulatory framework ensures that roads are built to last and are regularly maintained, reducing accidents and improving connectivity.
Similarly, Norway’s investment in advanced road-building technology and strict quality assurance processes has enabled it to maintain safe and durable roadways despite harsh weather conditions.
Steps forward: a call for action
To address the challenges facing Nepal’s road infrastructure, a multi-faceted approach is needed. This should include:
- Strengthening project management: There is a need for more effective planning and management of road construction projects. Establishing clear timelines, setting achievable milestones, and holding contractors accountable for delays can help ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Enhancing quality control: Implementing stricter quality control measures is crucial to prevent the rapid deterioration of roads. Regular inspections and the use of durable materials can help extend the lifespan of newly constructed roads.
- Increasing maintenance efforts: A proactive approach to road maintenance is essential. This includes regular resurfacing of roads, prompt filling of potholes, and ensuring proper drainage systems to prevent water damage.
- Improving road safety: To reduce accidents, the government should invest in road safety measures such as installing guardrails, improving signage, and enforcing traffic regulations. Public awareness campaigns can also educate drivers about safe driving practices.
- Leveraging technology: The use of modern technology, such as GIS mapping for monitoring road conditions and drones for surveying, can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of road maintenance efforts.
By addressing these issues head-on and learning from global best practices, Nepal can create a safer and more efficient road network that supports the nation’s development and improves the quality of life for its citizens.
The state of Nepal’s roads is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The decision by Prime Minister Oli to use a helicopter for a short journey due to bad road condition is a perfect example to the severity of the problem. It is time for the government to prioritize road infrastructure and implement effective solutions to ensure safe and reliable transportation for all Nepalis.
