Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run & Walk 2026: Celebration of a Historic Milestone in Nepal–Japan Friendship

The Department of Roads (DOR) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly organized the Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run & Walk 2026 today, a special pre-opening event to commemorate the completion of the Nagdhunga Tunnel Project, a landmark infrastructure initiative supported through the Government of Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA).

The Nagdhunga Tunnel is scheduled to open soon, following years of dedicated efforts, technical innovation, and the successful overcoming of numerous challenges, the tunnel is now ready to serve as a vital transportation link that will improve connectivity, enhance road safety, reduce travel time, and contribute to Nepal's socio-economic development.

To celebrate this important milestone, DOR and JICA jointly organized the Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run & Walk 2026 as a unique pre-opening event inside the tunnel before it is officially opened to vehicular traffic. The event provided participants with a rare opportunity to experience Nepal's newest tunnel infrastructure firsthand while fostering public awareness and a sense of ownership of this nationally significant asset.

In addition, the event was designed not only as a commemorative activity but also as a platform to promote road and tunnel safety. Participants were introduced to key tunnel safety features, proper tunnel usage practices, emergency response systems, and essential safety instructions that will support the safe operation of the tunnel once it becomes fully operational. Through this initiative, the organizers hope to enhance public understanding of tunnel infrastructure and encourage responsible behavior among future road users.

The organizers were honored to welcome Mr. Baikuntha Manandhar, Nepal's legendary marathon runner and national marathon record holder, as the Special Guest of the event. His participation added significance to the celebration of this historic occasion.

More than 400 invited participants joined the event, including government officials, representatives from the Embassy of Japan and JICA, local government representatives, professional and veteran runners, school students, Japanese volunteers, project experts, media personnel, and other stakeholders.

Beyond its engineering significance, the Nagdhunga Tunnel represents the strong and enduring friendship between Nepal and Japan. The successful completion of this project reflects the mutual trust, cooperation, and partnership that have characterized relations between the two countries for many years.

The Fun Run & Walk therefore served not only as a celebration of a major infrastructure achievement but also as a recognition of the people-to-people ties and collaborative efforts that made the project possible.

The Nagdhunga Tunnel Fun Run & Walk 2026 provided participants with a memorable experience while marking the beginning of a new chapter in Nepal's transportation infrastructure.

For more details, please contact:

Ms. Brinda Singh – Senior Public Relations Officer (JICA Nepal Office)

Singhbrinda.np@jica.go.jp