The Siddhababa Tunnel along the Siddhartha Highway has achieved a significant milestone with the breakthrough at the Dobhan-Siddhababa area of Palpa district. This development brings relief to travelers who have long faced difficulties and dangers due to frequent landslides, particularly in the Kohire Bhir section. The tunnel, which is 1,089 meters long, 10.5 meters wide, and 7 meters high, represents a safer alternative to the hazardous stretch of road.
At the time of the breakthrough, physical progress stood at 40.18 percent, with financial progress at 39.90 percent, reflecting an expenditure of approximately Rs 3 billion. Excavation from both ends of the tunnel, covering 480 meters from the north and 607 meters from the south, has been completed. However, critical tasks such as concreting the walls, waterproofing, leveling, ventilation, lighting, and safety installations remain to be completed. The project is expected to be operational within a year, although the final completion deadline is set for March 27, 2027.
The government signed a Rs 7.342 billion contract with the China State Construction Engineering Corporation on February 17, 2022. The agreement includes a provision for the contractor to manage operations and maintenance for five years after the tunnel’s completion. Once operational, the tunnel will enhance connectivity between Palpa and districts such as Gulmi, Syangja, Pokhara, and Baglung, while linking to the Kaligandaki Corridor.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced the breakthrough during a virtual address, highlighting the project’s importance in addressing safety concerns and improving infrastructure in the region. Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel emphasized that the tunnel would transform a route notorious for frequent accidents and landslides into a safe and reliable passage. The project also includes the construction of access roads, retention walls, rock sheds, and helipads to further bolster safety and usability.
The Siddhababa Tunnel is set to become a key infrastructure project in Nepal, improving safety, enhancing regional connectivity, and fostering economic growth in Lumbini and Gandaki Provinces.
