KAVREPALANCHOWK, July 10: Vehicular movement on the Araniko Highway has once again been halted due to a landslide on the Dhulikhel-Khawa road section under construction, exacerbated by continuous rain today. The District Police Office reported that the landslide occurred near Pakucha, trapping cargo vehicles in the muddy soil, making it impossible to extricate them.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Rajkumar Shrestha, spokesperson for the office, stated that the highway has been impassable since morning, affecting both passenger and freight vehicles due to the muddy conditions and landslides. Coordinated efforts by the district’s security agencies and road division office are underway to clear the road. Shrestha highlighted the challenges posed by large potholes and heavy mud on the route, leading to a halt of vehicles, including emergency ones, along the four-kilometer stretch from Dhulikhel to Khawa. The District Administration Office has advised using alternative routes as the Araniko Highway remains blocked since morning.

Earlier on Monday, heavy rain caused a landslide at 50 Kilo in Panchkhal, blocking the highway. The road was cleared for two-way traffic by Tuesday at 2PM after 14 hours of effort.