KHANDBARI: The Khandbari–Kimathanka road section has been completely blocked after a dry landslide occurred along the Koshi Highway at Sirek in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality–4, Sankhuwasabha.
Transport along the route was disrupted on Friday afternoon after a large volume of rocks, mud, and debris fell from a steep section of the road. According to the District Police Office, approximately 15 metres of roadway has been buried by the landslide.
Passengers and vehicles using the route have been stranded and affected by the obstruction.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Kumar Prasad Mainali, Chief of the District Police Office, said that a police team was immediately deployed to the site after receiving information about the incident. However, the road could not be cleared as the landslide has not yet fully stabilized. He added that efforts are underway to reopen the road in coordination with local authorities and relevant agencies.
The Khandbari–Kimathanka road section is a key transport link connecting the northern part of the district with the district headquarters. The blockade has also affected local residents, passengers, and freight vehicles transporting essential supplies in the Bhotkhola area.
Ram Bahadur Gurung, head of the North–South Koshi Road Project, said incidents of dry landslides in steep sections along the road have been increasing in recent days. He urged travellers to exercise caution, warning that unstable rocks and debris continue to pose a risk.
Authorities are preparing to deploy necessary equipment in coordination with the project office, local levels, and security agencies to clear the debris and restore traffic.
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