Authorities halt all vehicular movement on the vital highway after continuous rainfall causes landslides and falling rocks, urging travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys.
CHITWAN, JULY 13
Vehicular movement along the Narayanghat–Muglin section of the has been suspended until further notice after incessant rainfall triggered landslides and falling rocks at multiple locations, the Chitwan District Administration Office said on Monday.
The administration issued the order following a recommendation from the District Disaster Management Committee, citing a heightened risk of further landslides along the highway. The restriction applies to all types of vehicles.
In a public notice issued on Monday evening, the administration urged people not to travel outside the Kathmandu Valley, while those travelling from Rupandehi and Nawalparasi towards Kathmandu have been requested not to proceed beyond Chitwan until conditions improve.
The notice also advised travellers already on the road to remain in contact with the nearest security agencies, carry essential supplies including drinking water, dry food, first-aid medicines, extra clothing and fully charged mobile phones, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Earlier on Monday, the District Disaster Management Committee directed security agencies, local governments, the Road Division Office, irrigation and water resources projects, forest offices and other concerned agencies to remain on standby with manpower and equipment to respond to possible flood- and landslide-related emergencies.
According to the Bharatpur Road Division Office, the highway has been blocked in both directions at Tuin Khola after continuous rockfalls from the hillside. Traffic has also been disrupted at Seti Dobhan due to mudslides. Continuous heavy rainfall since the evening has hampered efforts to clear the debris, the office said.
