Monsoon floods and landslides cripple Nepal's highway network

Heavy monsoon rains have triggered floods, landslides and river erosion that blocked or restricted traffic on several major Nepalese highways, including the BP, Kanti, Mechi, Araniko, Lamosangu, Ramechhap, Trishuli, Pasang Lhamu and Jomsom‑Korala roads. Nighttime traffic bans remain in force on the BP and Kanti highways, and vehicle access is barred during specific evening hours on vulnerable sections such as the Khurkot‑Nepalthok‑Katunjebesi stretch.

Police reports note complete blockage of the Mechi Highway at Rajduwali, landslide closures on the Araniko Highway at Jiro Kilo and Kodari, and erosion‑damaged sections of the Lamosangu and Ramechhap highways. An alternative route has been opened through the Khimti Rural Electric Cooperative premises to aid travel.

The Department of Roads has begun surveying a parallel alignment along the Trishuli River to create an alternative to the landslide‑prone Narayanghat‑Muglin Road, a 35‑kilometre section that was upgraded in 2018 with World Bank financing but continues to suffer frequent disruptions. A Rs 220 million stabilization project is also under way at the Tuin Khola area to reduce future blockages.