Critical Need for Roads on Both Banks of the Narayani-Trishuli River in the Galchi-Narayangarh Section Identified
Image Source: Department of Roads, Bharatpur
Frequent disasters on the vital “lifeline” route connecting the Terai region to the federal capital have underscored the urgent need to construct roads on both banks of the Narayani and Trishuli rivers. Relevant authorities have recognized this critical issue and initiated discussions aimed at resolving it.
A spokesperson from the Department of Roads stated that their proposals and recommendations have already been submitted in writing to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, aiding the formulation of disaster recovery and reconstruction plans.
“We have already initiated targeted work toward Krishnabhir. Similarly, studies are underway to develop a strong road on the opposite bank from Galchi to Narayangarh,” said spokesperson Shubharaj Nepane.
“This is not a new problem. It was on pause for some time but is now being addressed quickly and effectively.”
The Prithvi Highway section from Naubise to Mugling, one of the main routes connecting Kathmandu to the Terai, has experienced two major disaster events in recent months.
Likewise, despite ongoing improvements on the Mugling-Narayangarh section of the Prithvi Highway, landslides and rockfalls continue to pose frequent risks.
According to geologists, while an alternative road might provide a distance advantage due to the area’s geography, errors made in the past must not be repeated.
Professor Ranjan Kumar Dahal, geography expert at Tribhuvan University, stated, “Many areas are prone to landslides, so it is essential to improve infrastructure using short tunnels and partial bridges alongside traditional methods.”
Discussions with China
Image Source: Ashok Devkota
Heavy rainfall lasting for extended periods in different road sections across Nepal was caused by the flooding of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli rivers on September 26 and a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal in mid-September, leading to significant damage.
The approximately 174-kilometer wide Prithvi Highway from Nagdhunga to Pokhara was constructed with support from the Chinese government, starting in 1967 and completed in 1974.
Currently, upgrade work is ongoing on the road section from Mugling eastward toward Pokhara, though problems persist in this area as well.
While discussions with the Chinese government regarding evaluation and improvements are ongoing, no consensus has yet been reached, the spokesperson confirmed.
Nepane said, “Regular dialogue is maintained with ministers, secretaries, and ambassadors, but no decision to move forward has been finalized.”
Although about 35 kilometers of the Mugling-Narayangarh road section have been improved, recurrent landslides frequently cause blockages and accidents.
Professor Dahal suggested constructing an advanced, faster-built road along the opposite riverbank instead of relying solely on traditional roads.
“With Chinese technology and strategic thinking being advanced, appropriate adaptation can be made according to our resources,” he added.
“However, plans should emphasize quick completion avoiding complex designs and expensive machinery.”
Serious Reassessment Required
Image Source: Nagdhunga-Mugling Road Project
Geography expert Dahal emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of road sections in the context of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods.
“Identifying specific problems in each segment is crucial as delays in further work cannot be afforded,” he stressed.
Department of Roads spokesperson Nepane shared that initial assessments have begun, prioritizing reopening blocked roads.
“The evaluation is ongoing, but more research is needed to develop effective prevention measures,” he noted.
The landslide at Krishnabhir between Malekhu and Mugling had been stabilized over multiple years.
However, after the original road was destroyed by river erosion, a risky new path was opened in the landslide area, which was subsequently affected by rain once again.
Officials have temporarily reopened the old route and are planning to upgrade and build an alternative road before the next rainy season.
“Road construction is ongoing for about 1.5 kilometers between Krishnabhir, Fisling, and Benighat, with other open roadways also being widened,” shared Director General Vijay Jaisi.
“We are also considering options to build tunnels or bypass bridges at Krishnabhir.”
Department officials remain alert to the recurring problem of landslides and road washouts in other locations as well.
Primary Issue: Shift in Trishuli River’s Course
Image Source: Reuters
According to the Department of Roads, the main challenge in this section is the Trishuli River encroaching toward the road.
Spokesperson Nepane explained, “Previously, the river flowed centrally, but now it runs close to the road. This leaves the roadway vulnerable and has caused significant issues from Rasuwa-Gadhi to Narayangarh.”
“The slopes above the road are also unstable due to altered rainfall patterns. Environmental factors were ignored in local road infrastructure, and water management has been inadequate.”
Officials have indicated that since Wednesday there have been no restrictions on heavy vehicle movement between Mugling and Kathmandu.
However, landslide risks persist near Dharapani, Fisling, and Jwong Khola along the roadside, prompting advisories for travelers to remain vigilant.
Travelers are also being warned about the potential for rockfalls in areas such as Krishnabhir, Dharapani, Fisling, Ghoptebhir, Simaldhara, Hugdi, and Jwong Khola.