Kathmandu’s long-promised ring road expansion continues to move at a slow pace, with less than half of the total stretch completed so far. Out of the planned 27 kilometres, only about 11 kilometres have been widened, while nearly 16 kilometres remain stuck in uncertainty.
The first section from Koteshwor to Kalanki took six years to complete, finishing in 2018 after starting in 2012. Since then, progress on the second section from Kalanki to Basundhara has faced repeated delays. Although discussions with China to fund and build this stretch began years ago, construction has yet to begin.
One of the main challenges has been the difficulty in clearing houses and other structures along the road. Disagreements over demolition slowed down preparations, and at one point, the Chinese side scaled back its initial plan. The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed progress, along with pending decisions on tax exemptions for construction materials.
Recent cabinet decisions to provide tax waivers have reopened the path for moving forward. Officials say a final agreement between Nepal and China is expected soon, after which design approval and contractor selection will follow. If things proceed without further delays, construction could begin before the monsoon.
Meanwhile, a smaller third section is nearing completion under Nepal government funding. Around 700 meters of road from Narayangopal Chowk towards Chappal Karkhana has already been expanded and is expected to open fully after final markings.
Plans are also underway to extend the road further, but funding approvals are still pending. With daily traffic pressure increasing, the slow progress of the ring road remains a major concern for the city’s infrastructure.