Authorities scramble for alternatives after Krishnabhir road cave-in

A section of Nepal’s main road to Kathmandu has fallen into the Trishuli River, forcing authorities to consider alternatives after the Prithvi Highway collapsed at Krishnabhir. The highway normally carries around 12,000 vehicles each day and has remained blocked since Sunday.

A 70-metre stretch disappeared into the river, according to Sajana Adhikari, chief of the Malekhu-Mugling Road Project. Another section, nearly 120 metres long, suffered severe structural cracks. Technical teams are now assessing whether the existing alignment can reopen or whether authorities must develop a longer-term alternative.

For now, vehicles are using bypass routes between Hetauda and Naubise, and between Fisling and Benighat. Adhikari inspected the site and said engineers had completed a preliminary assessment, but could not yet determine whether the damaged road could be restored. The collapse has completely disrupted traffic along the Krishnabhir stretch.

“

It is not yet clear whether the existing road can be reopened. A technical team is currently conducting a detailed study.

Repairing the traditional route will be difficult because the area has repeatedly suffered landslides and previous repairs. Bijaya Jaishi, director general of the Department of Roads, said officials were considering two main options: carving a route to the right or left of Krishnabhir, or using alternative tracks. He said a decision was expected within a couple of days.

Engineers warned that any repair would require extensive work beginning at the riverbank, an especially difficult task during the monsoon. The damage has stranded thousands of travellers and increased the risk of shortages in Kathmandu. The capital depends heavily on the highway for food grains, vegetables, milk, medicines, clothing, cooking gas, petrol, diesel and other daily necessities. Police have also reported major damage at three locations along the Naubise-Mugling section.

“

We are looking into whether we can operate the road by carving out space on the right or left side of Krishnabhir itself. Simultaneously, we are studying the feasible use of alternative tracks. We expect to reach a definitive conclusion within a couple of days.