Infrastructure committee chair pushes for smart traffic and project speed

Ashish Gajurel, chairperson of the Infrastructure Development Committee, is spearheading initiatives to modernize Nepal’s traffic management and expedite delayed national road projects. Advocating for a transition from manual traffic control to intelligent transportation systems, Gajurel has emphasized that technological integration should prioritize smart signals over the construction of pedestrian overpasses. He has also committed to improving basic working conditions for traffic police, including access to essential facilities like drinking water and sanitation.

Regarding national infrastructure, Gajurel has issued directives to accelerate stalled highway construction by resolving logistical hurdles such as tree management and the relocation of electricity poles. The committee has mandated that the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation and the Nepal Electricity Authority relocate poles on the Kamala-Dhalkebar-Bagmati section within two months, with similar deadlines set for the Nagdhunga-Muglin and Butwal-Gorusinge sections. Additionally, Gajurel is seeking stakeholder feedback on the National Road Safety Bill to ensure its practical implementation.