Kathmandu — The long-awaited overpass construction at Gwarko Chowk in Lalitpur has finally been completed. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to officially inaugurate the overpass this afternoon. The project, which saw multiple deadline extensions over the past three years, is now ready for operation.
Significant Relief from Traffic Congestion Expected
Gwarko Chowk, recognized as a major traffic bottleneck in the Kathmandu Valley, is expected to witness significant traffic improvement following the completion of the overpass. Although not a comprehensive solution, the Nepali saying “a one-eyed uncle is better than no uncle” aptly reflects the situation in urban centers such as Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. The newly built structure is regarded as a significant milestone for residents.
Commuters who endure hours of traffic congestion daily across various intersections in the capital are expected to benefit substantially. Drawing from the successful transformation seen in Kalanki—where a similar underpass and flyover reduced travel time drastically—the same level of relief is anticipated at Gwarko.
While the Gwarko overpass does not include an underpass, authorities believe it will still substantially improve traffic management. Expanding similar infrastructure to other busy junctions could further enhance mobility across the valley. Despite delays, the project symbolizes steady progress and has been welcomed positively by the public.
Construction Timeline and Delays in Completion
The project was implemented under the Department of Roads through the Quality Research and Development Center, under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport. On Falgun 12, 2078 B.S. (February 24, 2022), a contract was signed with the joint venture firm “Ashish–Samanantar Releger JV,” with the aim to complete construction within two years.
However, the project missed the original deadline of Falgun 11, 2080 B.S. (February 23, 2024). The timeline was extended to Ashad 2081 B.S. (June–July 2024), and later again to Poush 8, 2081 B.S. (December 23, 2024), after further delays. Construction was halted for a month during Poush and Magh. The contractor requested an extension until the end of Chaitra. Additional reconstruction of a 40-meter stretch necessitated another deadline extension.
The final plan to complete construction by Baisakh 2082 B.S. (April–May 2025) was delayed due to heavy rainfall. Now, with the project fully completed, Prime Minister Oli is set to inaugurate the overpass today, officially opening it to the public.
Project Specifications and Impact
The Gwarko overpass is the first of its kind constructed under the Ring Road Expansion Project at one of three major congestion points between Koteshwor and Kalanki. It stands 6 meters high, with a total length of 455 meters and a ground clearance of 6 meters.
To facilitate vehicle access, a 180-meter ramp has been built on the right side and a 110-meter ramp on the left. For commuters, this structure represents a new symbol of hope for smoother, safer travel—and it is now ready for full-scale public use.
