Govt sets toll fee for Nagdhunga–Naubise tunnel

KATHMANDU: The government has set a toll fee for vehicles using the Nagdhunga–Naubise tunnel, the country’s first road tunnel.

A cabinet meeting held on Monday determined the fee, requiring all vehicles passing through the tunnel to pay the designated charges.

Government Spokesperson and Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, said the cabinet meeting held on Monday approved the toll fees.

As per the cabinet’s decision, cars, vans and jeeps entering Kathmandu via the tunnel will pay to pay Rs 65, and Rs 60 when exiting. Similarly, minibuses and mini-trucks will be charged Rs 115 to enter Kathmandu and Rs 80 to exit, while buses and trucks are required to pay Rs 260 to enter and Rs 200 to exit. Likewise, heavy vehicles will be charged Rs 600 to enter Kathmandu and Rs 250 to exit.

According to the Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel Traffic Operation Directive, two-wheelers (motorcycles/scooters), three-wheelers (tempo, autorickshaw) and tankers carrying petroleum products are not allowed to use the tunnel. Additionally, vehicles carrying weapons, explosives, foul-smelling or decayed goods, and non-motorized vehicles are not permitted, except for security personnel.

The tunnel is scheduled to open in January.