Nepal's Korala Road Project Nears Completion: A Top Priority for Trade with China

Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal has declared the Korala road project a top priority for the Nepalese government, marking a significant milestone in the nation's infrastructure ambitions. During a discussion at the Kaligandaki Corridor project office, Lamsal announced that the budget for the Chhusang-Ghami section has been officially allocated and that the Ghami-Korala stretch will be blacktopped with asphalt as soon as possible.

The Minister emphasized that there will be no budget shortage for the project, reinforcing the government's commitment to completing this vital artery. He also instructed officials to cancel contracts of non-performing builders, ensuring that the project maintains momentum despite previous delays caused by slow contractor performance and adverse weather conditions.

84% Physical Progress on a National Pride Project

The Beni-Jomsom-Korala road, a cornerstone of Nepal's national pride infrastructure, has achieved 84% physical progress. This critical north-south connectivity project aims to establish an all-weather road network connecting southern Nepal to the Korala border with China in the north. The route spans 202 kilometers from Maldhunga in Parbat to Koralanaka in Mustang, with a total budget of Rs 10bn allocated for construction and upgrading.

As of the latest project report, 80% of the physical work has been completed, with financial progress standing at 75%. The project, initially projected for completion by the fiscal year 2022/23, has faced delays due to natural disasters and construction challenges, extending the deadline to 2025/26. However, the government's renewed focus and budget allocation signal a strong push to meet the revised timeline.

Boosting Trade and Connectivity Between Nepal and China

Once fully operational, the Korala road is expected to significantly boost trade and connectivity between Nepal and China. Korala, or Kora La, is a mountain pass between Tibet and Gandaki Province at an elevation of 4,660 meters, making it the lowest drivable path between the Tibetan Plateau and the Indian subcontinent. It currently serves as a vehicle border crossing between China and Nepal, and the upgraded road will enhance its role as a key trade corridor.

Nepal joined the Belt and Road Initiative in May 2017, and the two countries are now working to identify long-term connectivity projects under this framework. The Korala road project is a critical component of this initiative, strengthening Nepal's northern trade corridor and facilitating the movement of goods and people between the two nations.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the significant progress, the project continues to face challenges such as landslide control, bridge construction, and realignment of disputed road sections. Out of the 202 kilometers, 150 kilometers are under contract management, with 45.71% of the planned blacktopping completed. Additionally, 77 kilometers of gravel road have been finished, though the 25-kilometer Charang-Chooser stretch remains unfinished due to slow contractor performance.

Project Chief Dhruba Jha reported that 19 of the 24 needed bridges have been contracted, with 11 already completed. Efforts are underway to enter new contracts for the remaining bridges, ensuring that the project maintains its momentum. With the government's unwavering support and budget allocation, the Korala road project is poised to become a transformative infrastructure asset for Nepal, enhancing its economic ties with China and solidifying its position as a key player in regional trade.

The Minister's clear directive to cancel contracts of non-performing builders underscores the government's determination to complete this project efficiently. As the Korala road nears completion, it promises to be a vital link in Nepal's infrastructure network, driving economic growth and fostering stronger international relations.