KATHMANDU: Road authorities have set a speed limit for the Muglin–Pokhara section of the Prithvi Highway. The section is currently in the final phase of expansion into a four-lane roadway.
According to the Department of Roads (DoR), the maximum speed permitted on this section is 60 km/h. The limit has been capped due to the presence of curves and frequent turns on this highway section which pose risks at higher speeds, say officials of the DoR.
Officials believe that this measure will help reduce road accidents.
A recent study had recommended to the DoR to set speed limit at 60 km/hr. The study has also advised the DoR to install zebra crossings every 500 meters.
The eastern section, from Anbukhaireni to Jamune (41.45 km), has achieved over 85% physical progress.
In addition to enforcing the speed limit, authorities are placing signboards along the highway section, while lane marking is also underway.
The government is expanding Prithvi Highway, which links the tourist town of Pokhara to Kathmandu, into a four-lane roadway, with six lanes planned in some urban sections. The Muglin-Pokhara stretch of the highway project is being implemented in two sections.
The eastern section, from Anbukhaireni to Jamune (41.45 km), has achieved over 85% physical progress. Only 2 km stretch is remaining to be blacktopped in this section. China Communication Construction Company is handling upgrade of this section. The project cost is Rs 6.21 billion. The works must be completed within the current fiscal year which ends in mid-July.
The western section, from Jamune to Pokhara (38.88 km), has achieved a slow 55% physical progress. So far, 20 km of road has been blacktopped in this section. The contract for this section was awarded to Chinese firm Yanhui Kaiyuan Highway and Bridge Construction at Rs 7.4 billion. As per the revised schedule, this section should be completed by 2025.
