Kathmandu. Kathmandu: Minister for Defence Manbir Rai has made it clear that the process of acquiring land in Khokana area under the Kathmandu Tarai÷Madhes Expressway Project would be forwarded as per the sentiments of the locals. In today’s meeting of the National Assembly, Federalism Empowerment and National Concern Committee, he said that the government was planning to move ahead with consensus in khokana area as land acquisition outside the Valley under the expressway has already been completed.

“The government and the Nepal Army are clear that the voice of the people should be heard and it would have been possible to resolve the issue through some consensus,” said Minister Rai. Stating that land has already been acquired up to Nijgadh except the Kathmandu Valley, he said around 37 per cent of the land in Khokana area should be acquired earlier. “Internal discussions have been held to acquire land in Khokana area,” he said.

Making it clear that the work is progressing with the objective of completing the fast track project within the stipulated time, Minister Rai said, “It cannot be said that the project will not be completed without the scheduled date, but it is very difficult to complete it on time, but the Melamchi project will not be prolonged.” ”

Informing that the track opening of Khandbari-Kimathanka road has been completed, he said discussions would be held to blacktop the road with Chinese assistance during the Prime Minister’s china visit. Stating that Simkot of Humla is connected to the national road network, he made it clear that the progress of the projects under the responsibility of the Army was a matter of pride.

Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel made it clear that the Army was committed to complete the fast track project within the stipulated time. “Around 43 per cent of the works have been completed now and the works to be completed now are likely to be completed quickly,” he said, adding, “Most of the works have been spent on environmental impact assessment and call for bids.” ’

Chief of Army Staff Sigdel clarified that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared to take the project forward by protecting the cultural aspect of Khokana area, which is the entry point towards Kathmandu. “An alternative has been prepared even if Khokana is not able to come to the entry point,” he said, adding, “A way has been found to find out how the vehicles will enter and exit the entry point.” ’

The lawmakers stressed the need for completing the strategically important fast track project within the stipulated time and the government should take initiative to solve the problems seen in the construction of the project.