Highways Blocked at 11 Locations Nationwide; Travelers Advised to Use Alternative Routes

KATHMANDU, Oct 31

 Continuous rainfall and landslides have caused major traffic disruptions across Nepal, blocking key highways in at least 11 locations as of Friday morning. The Nepal Police Traffic Management Division issued a public notice at 10 a.m. urging travelers to avoid affected areas and use alternative routes until further notice.

Widespread Blockages Reported

According to police reports, Koshi Province has been the hardest hit, with blockages reported in five locations. Major disruptions have occurred in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality-4 (Sankhuwasabha), the Mechi Highway (Ilam), the Chyangthapu–Bhotkhola road section (Panchthar), and the Manmaya–Siddhicharan road section (Okhaldhunga), where vehicular movement has come to a complete halt.

In Bagmati Province, landslides have blocked roads in Kavrepalanchok, Sindhuli, Nuwakot, Ramechhap, and Rasuwa districts. Key sections affected include Gosaikunda–Syafrubesi, Narayanthum–Mulkhar, and Khandadevi–Thoksechaur road segments.

Elsewhere, Gandaki Province has reported obstructions in Myagdi and Musikot, while Lumbini Province faces a major road closure in Arghakhanchi. In Karnali Province, traffic has been completely halted along the Tripurasundari–Kholgaun road section in Dolpa.

Repair Work Underway

Police stated that repair and clearance operations are ongoing, with local authorities and the Department of Roads working to reopen blocked sections as soon as possible. However, due to continued rainfall and unstable terrain, progress remains slow.

“Our teams are working to clear landslides and reopen the roads, but for now, we request all passengers and drivers to use alternative routes and travel only if necessary,” Nepal Police said in its notice.

Passengers and Freight Movement Affected

The highway disruptions have left long-distance travelers stranded and caused delays in freight transport across several provinces. Transportation of essential goods has also been impacted, with trucks and buses halted at various points due to unsafe road conditions.

Authorities have urged the public to stay updated through official channels before planning long-distance journeys and to prioritize safety amid worsening weather conditions.