Income levels have increased in Goruchaur in Jumla following the provision of road access under the Karnali highway project. Locals worked on construction of the road, and now they are reaping the benefits: they can take their products to market and also purchase goods at cheaper prices.

Since the Nepal Army (NA) took on responsibility for construction, a 44-km unsurfaced road has been completed from Nagma. Before, animals had to be used to transport goods to Surkhet, and charges were Rs 15 per kg. Now, costs have fallen to Rs 4 per kg. "The road has made our lives much easier. Now we can transport the potatoes, apples, beans and other fruits and vegetables grown here to markets in Surkhet, Nepalganj and India," says Panna Prasad Upadhaya, a local from Kanaka Sundari. "The army has constructed the road for us, now Karnali has been declared a zone for fruits."

The contractors for the road were unable to work during the conflict years, which was why the NA took on the project. According to NA, all works will be completed within this fiscal year.

Sanjay KC, a technician at NA, says the road will be extended to Gamgadi in Mugu. In addition to the highway, 700m of smaller roads that will link several adjoining villages are also under construction. An investment of Rs 21 million will be required to complete the project but the government has allocated only Rs 8.75 million for it. Completion of the project will grant road access to the residents of Dolpa and Mugu as well, leaving Humla as the only Karnali district without access.