Traffic resumes on Prithivi Highway, 1,700 stranded vehicles enter valley

KATHMANDU: Following the reopening of the road at Jhyalple in Dhading under the Prithivi Highway, around 1,700 vehicles that were stranded have now entered the Kathmandu Valley.

Home Ministry spokesperson Rishiram Tiwari confirmed that the reopening of the road has allowed not only stranded vehicles but also passengers to enter Kathmandu.

He noted that arrangements are being made to dispatch vehicles from Kathmandu via this route starting from Monday afternoon.

“From today, vehicles will also be leaving the Kathmandu Valley via the Prithivi Highway,” he stated. “The Home Ministry is coordinating with various agencies to ensure the operation of both the main highway and other obstructed roads.”

On the same day, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak convened a meeting of the Central Security Committee at the Ministry. During the meeting, heads of security agencies reported on ongoing rescue efforts, relief operations, treatment for the injured, and the status of reopening blocked roads due to landslides and flooding.

“By this evening, all passengers stranded at the Roshi River along the BP Highway in Kavrepalanchowk will be rescued,” Tiwari added.

“Currently, teams of security personnel, including the Nepal Army, are carrying out rescues using aerial support and ropes to assist stranded passengers.”

The spokesperson urged caution while traveling, as weather conditions have not fully normalized.

“The process of reopening blocked roads is ongoing,” he said, “and the risks associated with landslides and other hazards have not yet been eliminated.”

It has been reported that teams of security personnel have been deployed to various locations across the country to assist in reopening blocked roads.

“Health camps are being established in affected areas, such as Roshi Rural Municipality, and relief distribution is underway,” Tiwari noted, adding, “Rescue and treatment for the injured are being provided free of charge.”