Five risk zones to be identified on Prithvi Highway

KATHMANDU: Authorities are set to identify five major accident-prone areas along the Tanahun section of the Prithvi Highway in response to a significant rise in road accidents, particularly during the ongoing Muglin-Pokhara road expansion project.

Chief District Officer (CDO) Ramkrishna Adhikari informed that increasing traffic incidents along the expanding highway section prompted the decision to pinpoint high-risk zones to mitigate accidents effectively.

A meeting of the District Coordination Committee for Highway Safety and Obstruction Removal—held at the District Administration Office, Tanahun—has directed the Muglin-Pokhara Road Expansion Project (Eastern and Western sections) to coordinate with the District Traffic Police Office in identifying risky zones.

The identified areas will undergo a technical study, followed by implementation of necessary corrective measures.

CDO Adhikari added that a 2082 B.S. action plan, including a response roster for coordinated removal of highway obstructions, has been approved by the District Administration Office.

“We will analyze the comparative accident trends along the Tanahun section and initiate necessary steps for accident reduction based on suggestions from concerned stakeholders,” he said.

The ongoing monsoon season has led to moderate to heavy rainfall across the country, raising concerns over potential landslides and road blockages along various parts of the Prithvi Highway.

With many sections of the road already operating as a four-lane highway, traffic volume and speed have increased, contributing to a notable rise in accidents.

These incidents are often concentrated at specific points, making both short- and long-term safety measures essential, Adhikari noted.

Meanwhile, the District Administration Office has urged the public to avoid non-essential travel during nighttime.

Those who must travel are advised to coordinate with the nearest traffic police or security personnel, particularly during the monsoon season.

Administrative Officer Bikash Shrestha issued a public notice today, urging drivers to exercise extreme caution while using the Prithvi Highway, Dumre-Besisahar Road section, and local rural roads.

The public is also requested not to exceed the designated speed limits and to stay updated on road conditions—especially in light of possible floods and landslides that may cause obstructions.