Banking News – Questions have been raised after the foundation stone installed by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel Road Project was found to have been removed ahead of the tunnel’s official inauguration.

The removal of the plaque has sparked public interest and political discussion, with many questioning the reason behind the decision.

According to officials, the foundation stone was removed as part of the project’s final construction and site management process. Authorities stated that the decision was made to facilitate the completion of the tunnel’s entrance area and related infrastructure, rather than for political reasons.

The Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel, Nepal’s first modern road tunnel, was constructed with concessional financing from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Government of Nepal. The project is expected to significantly improve connectivity by reducing travel time and easing congestion on the Nagdhunga section of the Prithvi Highway.

The issue surrounding the removed foundation stone has nevertheless drawn attention on social media and in political circles, with calls for greater transparency regarding the handling of commemorative structures at nationally significant infrastructure projects.