Image Credits : myRepublica- Nagarik Network
Traffic along Nepal’s critical East-West Highway came to a halt on Monday after a section of the road collapsed in Daunne, Nawalparasi. The collapse has forced authorities to implement one-way traffic operations, causing significant delays for vehicles traversing this vital route. The incident occurred following a period of heavy rainfall, which likely exacerbated the vulnerability of the road in the hilly terrain.
The East-West Highway, which spans the length of Nepal, is a key transportation artery for the country, connecting various provinces and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The sudden collapse in Daunne has raised concerns about the overall stability of the highway, particularly in areas prone to landslides and other natural hazards. Local authorities have responded swiftly, deploying repair crews to the site to restore the road as quickly as possible.
According to officials, the repairs are expected to take several days due to the extent of the damage. The narrow, winding section of the highway in Daunne is particularly challenging for engineers, who must ensure that the repairs can withstand future weather conditions. In the meantime, authorities have urged travellers to exercise caution and patience while navigating the area, as the one-way traffic operation is likely to cause continued delays.
The collapse highlights ongoing infrastructure challenges in Nepal, where road maintenance and disaster preparedness remain critical issues. As monsoon rains continue to affect the region, there are growing concerns about the potential for further disruptions along the East-West Highway and other key routes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for ongoing investment in infrastructure resilience to ensure the safety and reliability of the country’s transportation network.
Local residents and business owners have expressed frustration over the disruption, which has impacted the flow of goods and services across the region. The East-West Highway is a crucial route for transporting agricultural products and other goods, and the collapse has led to concerns about potential shortages and delays in supply chains. Some residents have called on the government to prioritize long-term infrastructure improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future, particularly in areas known to be vulnerable to landslides and erosion.
In addition to the immediate repair efforts, there are growing calls for a comprehensive assessment of the highway’s condition, especially in sections passing through mountainous terrain. Experts have suggested that more robust engineering solutions, including improved drainage systems and reinforced roadbeds, may be necessary to ensure the highway’s resilience against natural disasters. As the monsoon season progresses, the situation in Daunne and other similar regions will be closely monitored to prevent further disruptions to Nepal’s critical transportation network.