The Kanti Lokpath (highway), a vital link connecting Kathmandu to Hetauda, has been blocked due to landslides, causing significant disruptions to transport services and impacting tourism in the region.
The landslides occurred on Saturday night in Pandhure and Chhabeni of Bagmati Rural Municipality-2 in Lalitpur. District Police Office spokesperson, Inspector Prakash Shah, reported that another landslide at Siranchowk in Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-8 of Makawanpur also blocked the traffic from Hetauda to Thigan.
Efforts are underway to clear the landslides in Pandhure and Chhabeni. Meanwhile, transport services are being rerouted to and from Hetauda via the Tribhuvan Rajpath through Fakhel, Sisneri, Kulekhani, and Matatirtha, according to the police.
Hetauda, known for its lush landscapes and as a gateway to several trekking routes, relies heavily on road connectivity for tourism. The Kanti Lokpath serves as a crucial route for tourists traveling between Kathmandu and Hetauda, providing access to attractions such as the Chitwan National Park and the scenic routes of Makwanpur.
The blockage of the Kanti Lokpath has caused delays and inconvenience for tourists. Many visitors rely on this highway for a swift journey to the southern parts of Nepal, including popular destinations like Hetauda and the surrounding trekking areas. The disruption is expected to affect the local tourism industry, which is already recovering from the impacts of the pandemic.
Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are bracing for a downturn in tourist numbers. The rerouted path through Tribhuvan Rajpath is longer and more arduous, potentially discouraging tourists from making the journey.
Authorities are prioritizing the clearance of the landslides to restore normalcy. “We are working round the clock to clear the debris and reopen the highway,” said Inspector Prakash Shah. “We understand the importance of this route for both locals and tourists, and every effort is being made to expedite the process.”
In the meantime, travelers are advised to use alternative routes and stay updated on the latest road conditions. The police have assured that transport services along the Tribhuvan Rajpath are operating smoothly, albeit with some delays due to increased traffic.
The landslides blocking the Kanti Lokpath highlight the challenges faced by Nepal’s infrastructure, especially in the context of its mountainous terrain. The swift response by the authorities is crucial in mitigating the impact on tourism and ensuring that travelers can continue to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of regions like Hetauda. For now, tourists and locals alike are hopeful for a quick resolution to the situation, so that the flow of travel and tourism can resume unhindered.
