Experts have called for the early completion of the Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track Project, saying that it is a vital infrastructure that will boost the economy and improve connectivity between the Kathmandu Valley and the Terai region.
The project is currently only 21.18% complete and is expected to cost Rs 213.09 billion. It is scheduled to be completed in 2024, but experts say that it is likely to take longer due to several challenges, including land acquisition, environmental clearance, and political instability.
"The Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track is a strategic project that will have a major impact on the development of Nepal," said Dr. Suresh Kumar Chalise, an economist. "We should ensure it's done early so we can enjoy the benefits sooner.
The Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track project will connect Kathmandu with the Indian border at Birgunj, and it is expected to reduce the travel time between the two cities from 10 hours to just 3 hours. It will also boost trade and tourism, and it will create jobs in the construction and transportation sectors.
However, the project has faced several challenges, including land acquisition, environmental clearance, and political instability. Land acquisition has been a major issue, as some landowners have refused to sell their land. Environmental clearance has also been slow, as the project is in a sensitive area. And political instability has also hampered progress, as the project has been delayed due to changes in government.
Despite these challenges, experts believe that the Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track is a vital project that should be completed as soon as possible. They say that the benefits of the project outweigh the challenges and that it will be a major boost to the economy of Nepal.
"The Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track is a game-changer for Nepal," said Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada, a civil engineer. "It's going to change how we travel and do business, and it'll bring our country closer together”
The government has said that it is committed to the early completion of the project, and it has announced several measures to address the challenges that have been faced. These measures include providing financial compensation to landowners, expediting the environmental clearance process, and strengthening the political will to see the project through.
Experts say that these measures are a step in the right direction, but they believe that more needs to be done to ensure the early completion of the project. They say that the government needs to be more transparent and accountable and that it needs to work closely with all stakeholders to overcome the challenges that have been faced.
"The Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track is a national project, and it is important for everyone to work together to ensure its early completion," said Dr. Chalise. "The government needs to take the lead, but it also needs the support of the people and the private sector."
The Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track is a vital project that has the potential to transform Nepal. The government and all stakeholders need to work together to ensure its early completion so that the country can reap the benefits as soon as possible.
