Persistent rainfall has disrupted road connectivity across Nepal, with landslides blocking major highways and authorities restricting vehicle movement on several routes amid concerns over further flooding and slope failures.
The disruption has particularly affected highways linking Kathmandu with the country's major cities and western and eastern districts. The Prithivi Highway, BP Highway and Kanti Lokpath have all reported disruptions while the Narayangadh-Muglin road has been closed because of continuing landslide risks.
Prithivi Highway closed at multiple points: The Prithivi highway which is a major road connection between Kathmandu and western and central Nepal, has been affected by landslides at several locations in Dhading.
Landslides have been reported at Krishnabhir, Parewabhir, Jamireghat, Jahare, Jabang Khola, Kameree Bhir and Tigrang Khola. The highway is completely blocked in both directions at Krishnabhir and Tigrang Khola, while at remaining places vehicles have been able to pass through a single lane.
Authorities have deployed equipment that are neccessary from removing debris from the affected sections. However, continued rainfall and possibility of fresh landslides have hampered the clearance efforts.
The latest disruption has also affected a section that had only returned to normal operation after earlier flood damage. The road resumed operating on Sep 17 before again being disrupted.BP Highway blocked in Kavrepalanchok: The BP Highway has been blocked by landslides at Charsayabensi and Gimdi in Roshi Rural Municipality of Kavrepalanchok.
Other sections, including Chowkidanda and Mamti, have also been affected by landslides as rainfall continues.
Authorities have imposed a night-time travel restriction on the Kavrepalanchok section from 5 pm to 5 am through September 28. Officials have warned that daytime restrictions could also be introduced if rainfall, river levels and landslide risks increase.
The Roshi River at Panauti has also crossed its warning level and continues to rise, according to local authorities. The situation is being monitored because rising river levels could further affect nearby roads and settlements.Kanti Lokpath and other routes affected: The Kanti Lokpath, an alternative road connection between Kathmandu and Hetauda, has been obstructed by landslides at three locations on the Lalitpur side.
The route through Pharping toward Hetauda remains open to smaller vehicles, according to traffic authorities. Travellers using the route have nevertheless been advised to check conditions before departure because road conditions can change quickly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Kali Gandaki Corridor has also been completely blocked at the Rudrabeni–Purtighat section in Gulmi after a landslide at Rakse. Rising water in the Pati Khola has further disrupted transport, leaving some vehicles and passengers stranded along the route toward Baglung, Palpa, Butwal and Pokhara.
Authorities have urged travellers to check road conditions before starting journeys and to exercise caution in areas vulnerable to landslides and flooding. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast continued rainfall, with heavy rainfall expected in several parts of the country. Authorities have also warned people to remain alert in flood- and landslide-prone areas as rainfall continues.
