KATHMANDU: Rain on Tuesday night has triggered floods and landslides, blocking four additional road sections across the country, according to the Department of Roads.
The total number of obstructed roads due to monsoon-related disasters now stands at five, with several others operating partially.
One of the most severely affected routes is the Galchi–Trishuli–Mailung–Syaphrubesi–Rasuwagadhi road, which was blocked after a glacial flood from Tibet-fed Lhende River swept away the Nepal-China Friendship Bridge at Rasuwagadhi.
The department reported that the massive flood not only destroyed the bridge but also eroded the road along the riverbanks. Officials have not yet confirmed how long it will take to reopen the route.
Under the Shahid Marg road network, the Koilabas–Lamahi and Arjunchowk–Ghorahi–Holeri–Gharti Gaun–Thawang–Lukum sections have also been blocked. A landslide carrying large rocks at Kharibot in Rolpa has hindered clearance work, although machines have already been deployed.
In the east, flooding in the Hewa River has obstructed key routes including Kechana–Chandragadhi–Charali–Ilam–Phidim and the Ganeshchowk–Taplejung–Olangchungola sections. The department said it plans to deploy machinery and labor once water levels subside.
Similarly, the Rapti Highway section from Amelia–Tulsipur–Sheetalpati–Tharmare–Musikot in Salyan remains closed after a flash flood in the Chorkhola area. The department aims to begin clearance work at first light on Wednesday using heavy equipment.
According to the latest update, 75 roads are currently operational in both directions, 72 are operating partially (one-way), and five remain fully obstructed due to monsoon-related incidents. The Department of Roads is monitoring all affected areas and coordinating with local units for timely road clearance.
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