A new 7.8-kilometer paved road has been constructed along the shoreline of Rupa Lake, the third-largest lake in the district, significantly enhancing access and boosting tourism in the area.
The road, built using asphalt technology, runs along the lake’s edge and has already contributed to an increase in tourist visits. The Rupa Lake Integrated Conservation Project signed a contract on July 7, 2021, with Duku Construction Pvt. Ltd. Kathmandu, for the construction of the road, for NPR 243.5 million. The road stretches from the Khola area of Rupa Gaunpalika to Talbesi, along the left bank of the lake.
Engineer Narjang Gurung of the Irrigation and Water Resources Management Project confirmed that all construction work has been completed as per the agreement. The road, excluding the drainage system, is 5.5 meters wide. “Although the project was initially delayed due to budget constraints, all work has now been completed according to the contract, and the final bill has been paid to the construction company,” Gurung said.
The contract stipulates that if any damage occurs to the road within 13 months of the final payment, the construction company is responsible for repairs. The road’s track was originally opened in 2002, with initial construction funded by the Rupa Lake Restoration and Fisheries Cooperative.
The road’s completion has greatly benefited residents. The previous route from Begnas Lake to Sundaridanda, Talbesi, and Bhorletar in Lamjung was narrow and in poor condition. The new road along the shoreline of Rupa Lake now serves as an alternative, according to resident Bishwaraj Paudel.
Residents of Thumki, Talbesi, Hanshpur, Sauravas, and other areas in Rupa Gaunpalika have also found the new road to be a significant improvement. “The construction of this road has made our lives much easier. It has enhanced the importance of the lake and led to an increase in tourist arrivals,” Paudel added.
Rupa Lake is listed as a World Ramsar Site and touches parts of former Lekhnath Municipality Wards 10, 11, and 14.
