After years of neglect and criticism, the Tal Talaiya road section in Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City is finally under rapid construction. The road, funded by the World Bank, connects wards 2, 3, and 4, starting near the Tal Talaiya gate in Itahari’s east line and stretching to Tal Talaiya.
According to Mayor Hem Karna Paudel, the road will feature a modern design, including a dedicated cycle lane. The total cost of the project is approximately NPR 738 million, and it will link Tal Talaiya to Bargachhi in Itahari-2.
Mayor Paudel highlighted the importance of this road as it connects two sub-metropolitan cities in Koshi Province and is part of Nepal’s list of 100 must-visit destinations. Additionally, it could serve as an alternative route connecting Dharan and Kakarbhitta in the future.
Road Specifications
Engineer Jiban Ghimire of Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City stated that the road width varies: 32 feet in Ward 2, 60 feet in Ward 3, and 50 feet in Ward 4. The total length of the road is 8.5 kilometers, with 25% of the work completed so far.
The road is being constructed by Ashish-Aashirbad JV Company, which signed the contract in mid-June 2024 (Asar 2082). The project is scheduled for completion by mid-June 2025. The road will have a 50mm asphalt layer as per technical standards.
Positive Impact on the Community
The neglected condition of the road had caused significant problems for residents, with potholes filled with water during monsoons and dusty conditions in winter. Local Ganesh Phuyal recalled frequent accidents involving bicycles, motorcycles, and city safari vehicles due to the poor state of the road.
Now, with construction underway, locals are optimistic. Many, like Phuyal, believe the new road will resolve long-standing issues and improve daily life.
Earlier, frustrated residents protested the delays by planting rice in the road’s muddy sections during Rice Day celebrations. However, with visible progress, the community is now hopeful the road will be completed on time.