“The idea is to provide a separate corridor along these roads to prevent frequent road-digging undertaken for repair work. Though the project requires heavy initial investment, it promises to be economically viable in the long run, as it would save time and cost of restoration after digging,” an NDMC official told Newsline.

The NDMC also plans to lay all electrical and telephone lines through these ducts, which will have separate sections for water, electricity, sewerage and telephone among others. There will also be repair points at every section of the duct.

“Agencies will be able to use these points for repair work or for replacing wiring,” Parimal Rai, chairperson of the NDMC, said after the meeting. The council is now plans to get data on the wiring work and other requirements for the ducts.