KAVRE: The Punyamata Khola bridge on the alternative route of the Araniko Highway has collapsed, halting all traffic along the Banepa–Nala–Bhaktapur section.

The bridge, located between Wards 1 and 4 of Banepa Municipality in Kavre district, gave way during the night near Nala Pulbazar, causing major disruption for commuters.

With the main Dhulikhel–Suryabinayak road under construction and now the alternative route blocked due to the collapse, passengers and locals are left without a viable passage, according to District Traffic Chief Sunil Dhwajju.

Following the collapse, all traffic has been halted on the affected road, forcing vehicles to seek yet another detour in already difficult conditions.