Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has initiated high-level discussions to resolve the long-standing issues surrounding the Khokana entry point of the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhes Expressway Road Project.

In a meeting held at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar on Monday, PM Oli met with concerned ministers, top government officials, and military leadership to assess the situation and discuss viable alternatives to address local opposition and cultural concerns.

The primary focus of the discussion was the controversy over the project’s current entry point at Phudol, Lalitpur Metropolitan City-21, which lies within the historically and culturally sensitive Newar settlement of Khokana. The area is known for its deep-rooted religious and cultural significance.

Prime Minister Oli emphasized the need to respect local sentiments while ensuring national development priorities move ahead without delay. “The project must proceed without keeping the issue in prolonged uncertainty, but local concerns should be addressed respectfully,” Oli stated.

The meeting was attended by Physical Infrastructure Minister Devendra Dahal, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic Development Advisor Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada, Chief of Army Staff Ashokraj Sigdel, and top secretaries from the relevant ministries.

The government is expected to announce a refined plan soon that aims to balance development with cultural preservation in Khokana.