Key Takeaways:

• Kathmandu has imposed night-time travel restrictions on the Dakshinkali-Hetauda route
• Vehicles must reach the Farping checkpoint by 8pm when travelling towards Hetauda
• Passenger vehicles from Balkhu may begin operating only after 5am
• Authorities cite rising accidents, speeding, driver fatigue and unsafe vehicle conditions
• Police have been instructed to intensify inspections and enforcement along the route

KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 14 The Kathmandu District Administration Office has imposed night-time operating restrictions on passenger vehicles travelling between Kathmandu and Hetauda via Dakshinkali, citing a growing number of road accidents and fatalities along the route. Under the new rules, vehicles travelling from Kathmandu towards Hetauda must pass through the Farping Police Checkpost by 8pm, while vehicles departing from Balkhu on the route will only be allowed to begin service after 5am. The restrictions were announced through a notice issued by Chief District Officer Ishwar Raj Paudel, who said authorities were responding to increasing safety concerns on the road section. According to the administration, factors contributing to accidents include the route's narrow and winding alignment, steep terrain, poor vehicle condition, excessive speeding, reckless driving and driver fatigue caused by repeated trips within a single day. The notice also cites reports of drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, creating additional risks for passengers and other road users. As part of the safety measures, transport operators have been instructed to carry out thorough mechanical inspections before vehicles are put into service. Police and traffic units stationed along the route within Kathmandu district have also been ordered to conduct stricter inspections of passenger and public vehicles. Officials said the measures are intended to reduce accidents and improve passenger safety on a route that has witnessed a series of fatal crashes in recent months.