KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

Heavy Rain Causes Floods and Landslides Blocking 6 Highways

The Nepal Police reported that incessant rainfall caused floods and landslides that obstructed 6 major highways across the country on Saturday. Affected routes include the Khurkot-Nepalthok-Katunjebesi road, Kanti Lokpath, Mechi Highway, Saljhandi-Dhorpatan, and Araniko Highway at Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality-4. Additionally, the Kaligandaki Corridor is completely blocked due to a landslide in Jaimini Municipality-8, Baglung. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology warned of continued heavy rainfall and urged citizens to exercise special caution.

Local Administration Restricts Night Travel Due To Monsoon Risks

The District Administration Offices in Kaski and Syangja issued emergency orders restricting nighttime vehicular movement on July 18 and 19, 2026, due to heavy monsoon rainfall and high flood risks. In Kaski, vehicles are prohibited from traveling between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM. In Syangja, restrictions apply to the Siddhartha Highway and branch roads from 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM. Officials advised residents in high-risk areas to relocate to safer locations immediately and urged the public to avoid rivers, streams, and long-distance travel unless absolutely necessary.

Minister Sunil Lamsal Inspects Karnali Road Network

Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal traveled to Kalikot on Friday to conduct an on-site inspection of road infrastructure in the Karnali region. Minister Sunil Lamsal consulted with the Surkhet Road Division Office before commencing his tour of the Kalikot-Nagm-Gamgadhi road and the Khulalu-Kolti-Simikot highway. His itinerary also includes evaluating the status of the road network connecting Simikot to the Nepal-China border point at Hilsa. The inspection mission aims to gather direct feedback from local communities to inform future governmental development projects.

Around 4,000 Cyclists Pedal for a Cause in Kathmandu Today

The 2026 edition of the Kathmandu Kora Challenge, a prominent community and charity cycling event, successfully concluded on Saturday, drawing a massive turnout of approximately 4,000 cycling enthusiasts. The charity ride kicked off from the historic Patan Durbar Square. Participants challenged themselves across multiple difficulty levels, navigating pre-designated routes of 50, 75, 100, and 165 kilometers before crossing the finish line at Nagbahal. According to the organizers, the primary vision behind this annual campaign is to advocate for quality education, environmental conservation, healthy living, and the promotion of sustainable urban transportation. The event wrapped up with an energetic closing ceremony where participants were awarded commemorative medals. The finale also featured vibrant cultural performances and a specially curated ‘Kids Kora’ to encourage younger riders to take up the sport.

Youth Movement Demands Executive Presidency and Systemic Reform

A group of young activists organized a demonstration at Maitighar, Kathmandu, on Saturday demanding the implementation of a directly elected executive presidency in four years. Their demands include the abolition of provinces, a limit of 10 ministers in the cabinet, and the nationalization of all domestic banks. Activist Arjun Bishwakarma highlighted the necessity of a scientific land reform act to support landless farmers and the poor. The movement also called for the immediate revision of educational curricula to prioritize skill-based and practical learning, alongside stricter sentencing for criminal offenses.

Authorities Warn Against Unlabeled and Low-Quality Footwear

The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection issued a formal notification on Friday prohibiting the sale of unlabeled, counterfeit, or substandard imported footwear via physical and digital platforms. Citing the Consumer Protection Act, 2018, the department mandated that all manufacturers, importers, transporters, and sellers strictly adhere to legal labeling and quality standards. Failure to comply with these regulations will result in the strictest possible legal action against violators to ensure consumer rights and public safety remain protected across the domestic market.

Rs 2.25 Billion Dry Port Project Stalled in Timure

The dry port construction in Timure, funded by China with over Rs 2.25 billion, remains completely stranded one year after the July 8, 2025, flash floods. Despite 80 percent completion, the disaster caused Rs 912 million in damages to port infrastructure, with an additional Rs 705.1 million lost in goods and equipment. Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Committee official Yubak Dangol confirmed that no plans or budgets exist for restoration. The July 2025 floods caused a total regional loss of Rs 66.28 billion, forcing customs officials to operate from damaged sheds while trade relies on a temporary bridge.

Kulman Ghising Criticizes Government Performance Today

Ujyalo Nepal Party Chairman Kulman Ghising stated that rising public frustration stems from the government’s failure to provide reliable foundations for citizens and the industrial sector. During a program organized in Kathmandu on Saturday Kulman Ghising criticized the current administration, noting that systemic despair has led to tragic incidents like self-immolation. Kulman Ghising emphasized that if the near-two-thirds majority government continues to erode public trust, the nation faces the risk of renewed conflict. He announced plans for a nationwide tour to address grassroots issues, declaring his party’s readiness to confront upcoming local, provincial, and federal challenges independently.

RSP Chair Lamichhane Defends Administration

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane defended the administration led by Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah today, pledging to roll back any policies causing severe public distress. Addressing concerns at a party gathering in Rautahat regarding disruptive border customs regulations, Lamichhane emphasized that the government’s policies are flexible and focused on public welfare. He distinguished between flawed execution and malicious intent, asserting the government’s motives remain pure. Lamichhane urged patience, noting that structural changes often face implementation challenges, and promised that the RSP will directly intervene if ministries fail to resolve formally registered public grievances.

UML Directs Ministers to Resign from Bagmati Province

The CPN (UML) is set to exit the Bagmati Province government following a directive from parliamentary party leader Jagannath Thapaliya ordering all represented ministers to resign. The ministers have been instructed to submit their resignations to Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya. The party’s future strategy would be finalized post-resignation, attributing the decision to coalition disputes between the Nepali Congress and CPN (UML), similar to friction seen in other provinces. The CPN (UML) currently holds six ministerial positions in the province, including Madhusudan Paudel, Bindu Shrestha, Dinesh Chandra Devkota, and three ministers without portfolio: Kiran Thapa Magar, Jairam Shrestha, and Bharat Bahadur KC. The political shift follows a major cabinet downsizing led by Chief Minister Baniya, who reduced the number of provincial ministries from 14 to eight. Since the restructuring took effect on July 17, responsibilities were consolidated into eight ministries, leaving six ministers without portfolios.

‘Prachanda’ Expresses Grief Over Devendra Pandey’s Passing

Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ expressed profound sorrow regarding the passing of civic leader and former minister Devendra Raj Pandey. Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ highlighted Devendra Raj Pandey’s significant contributions to the peace process, democratic republic establishment, and civil liberties, stating that his legacy remains an inspiration in Nepal’s history. Devendra Raj Pandey passed away at the age of 87 on Friday evening at his residence in Vishalnagar, Kathmandu. Leaders and activists paid their final respects at the Pashupati Aryaghat on Saturday.

Gagan Thapa Mourns the Loss of Devendra Raj Pandey

Nepali Congress Chairman Gagan Thapa expressed deep sorrow over the death of civic leader Devendra Raj Pandey, noting that the nation has lost a profound intellectual and ethical leader. In his official message, Gagan Thapa honored Devendra Raj Pandey’s lifelong commitment to human rights, civil liberty, and good governance, acknowledging his transformative influence on Nepal’s economic and public administration discourse. Devendra Raj Pandey, who previously served as finance secretary and finance minister, was remembered by political leaders, authors, and activists during his funeral services held on Saturday.

RSP MP Yagyamani Neupane Calls for Judicial Overhaul

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Yagyamani Neupane declared today that eradicating corruption is impossible without a structural overhaul of the judiciary. Representing Morang Constituency No. 1, Neupane criticized the Special Court’s decision on July 17, 2026 (Friday) to release former Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel on a general date following his June 22 arrest on money laundering charges. Neupane argued that current legal frameworks protect the powerful while failing ordinary citizens. He urged a “ruthless review” of the courts to restore public faith, stating that systemic reform is essential for good governance.

Bagmati Clean-Up Campaign Removes 3.5 MT of Waste So Far

Volunteers collected and managed 3.5 metric tons of non-biodegradable waste from the Bagmati riverbank below Sinamangal Bridge on Saturday during the 688th week of the Bagmati Mega Clean-up Campaign. The waste was managed by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Environment Department. The clean-up involved representatives of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization, the Rotary Club of Kathmandu Heritage, campaign volunteers, and local residents. Launched on May 13, 2013, the weekly campaign has continued every Saturday despite adverse weather, major festivals, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers said similar clean-up drives are now being carried out at more than 108 locations across the country, inspired by the Bagmati campaign.

Nepal Telecom Launches Online SIM Replacement Service

In alignment with a 10-point reform plan, Nepal Telecom has introduced an online portal for replacing lost or damaged SIM cards. Spokesperson Kamal Lamichhane stated that the initiative aims to enhance digital service delivery and improve customer convenience. Customers can apply for new physical or electronic SIM cards online, with the option to collect them personally or through a representative at designated service centers. Nepal Telecom is simultaneously prioritizing 4G quality improvements, the establishment of unified help desks, and the elimination of automatic balance deductions after data limits expire to streamline administrative processes and service management.

CIB Marks 16th Anniversary

The Nepal Police Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) marked its 16th anniversary on Friday with a series of programs highlighting its role in criminal investigations and cooperation with partner agencies. The event included an interaction with former CIB chiefs and a formal ceremony attended by Inspector General of Police Basanta Bahadur Kunwar, senior officials from government ministries, the judiciary, law enforcement and regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. During the program, former CIB chiefs, retired investigation officers, and organizations that have contributed to crime investigation and control through coordination with the bureau were honored for their support. Established on July 17, 2010, the CIB is responsible for investigating serious and organized crimes requiring specialized expertise under prevailing laws. It supports police investigations involving complex criminal networks and cases with significant implications for public peace and security.

521 Drivers Face Traffic Penalties in Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office reported that 521 drivers faced legal action within the last 24 hours for violating traffic regulations. Spokesperson and Superintendent of Police Naresh Prasad Subedi confirmed that penalties included 30 cases for driving under the influence, 66 for speeding, 32 for prohibited horn usage, and 26 for traffic signal violations. Additionally, authorities penalized 12 mechanical violations, 7 for poor vehicle condition, 19 for footpath parking, 6 for one-way street violations, and 323 for miscellaneous traffic rule infractions across the valley.

Promotional Song ‘Masterni’ Removed from YouTube

The promotional song ‘Tara Baji Laile’ from the film ‘Masterni’, featuring Durgesh Thapa and Priyanka Karki, was removed from YouTube following widespread controversy. Nepal Teachers’ Federation and Nepal Relief Teachers’ National Committee expressed strong objections, claiming the lyrics and visuals disparaged the dignity of teachers. Both Durgesh Thapa and Priyanka Karki issued formal apologies via social media, acknowledging that their production unintentionally caused pain and promising to be more sensitive to the teaching profession in future creative projects.

Award-Winning Film ‘Shakti’ Available Globally Online

The award-winning Nepali film ‘Shakti’, directed by Nani Sahra Walker, is now available for free streaming globally on Plex and Fawesome and on Tubi for audiences in the United States and Canada. Inspired by the real-world 35-day statute of limitations for filing sexual violence cases in Nepal, the film explores themes of caste discrimination, corruption, and systemic injustice. Having won seven awards across 10 international festivals including the Nepal-America International Film Festival the film is also available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.

Table Tennis Athletes Depart for Special Training in South Korea Today

National champion table tennis players Sanyog Kapali and Yongi Paudel departed for Seoul, South Korea, on Saturday for one month of specialized training. Invited by the 1988 Seoul Olympics gold medalist Yang Young-ja, the athletes will train at Doksan High School until August 18, 2026. The training program offers opportunities to practice with professional athletes and coaches, observe sessions, and exchange experiences. The All Nepal Table Tennis Association is currently coordinating efforts to secure training opportunities for the remaining four selected athletes for the upcoming 20th Asian Games in Aichi/Nagoya, Japan.

Falkland Banner Sparks FIFA Scrutiny, White House Defends Argentina

The White House has defended the Argentina national football team’s right to express its views after players displayed a banner supporting Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands following their FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over England in the United States. The incident has prompted FIFA to review whether the display breached its rules prohibiting political messages during official competitions. Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House FIFA Task Force, said United States constitutional protections for free speech allow individuals to express their views. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom government backed calls for a FIFA investigation, while the Falkland Islands government also urged football authorities to enforce regulations separating politics from sport. The sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory, has remained unresolved for decades.

TikTok Launches New Initiatives to Enhance AI Literacy and Transparency

TikTok announced new initiatives to help users identify and understand artificial intelligence-generated content. The platform is expanding educational content, enhancing spam detection, and partnering with industry experts to ensure a safe digital experience. TikTok will introduce an AI Literacy Hub in Nepal within the coming weeks to provide practical guides on responsible technology use. Having invested over USD 4 million globally, TikTok has already labeled over 3 billion videos. Furthermore, the company is testing advanced systems to identify and remove AI-generated spam, particularly concerning public health, finance, and political misinformation.

US Launches 7th Round of Strikes on Iran

The United States military said it carried out a seventh consecutive night of strikes on Iran, targeting military logistics facilities, surveillance sites, underground weapons storage, and maritime infrastructure after United States President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire agreement over. Iran responded by launching attacks toward regional United States allies, with Kuwait reporting damage to power and oil facilities and Jordan and Bahrain saying they intercepted Iranian missiles. The renewed hostilities have further disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over global energy supplies. Both sides have disputed claims over attacks on civilian infrastructure, while fighting continues despite earlier efforts to revive negotiations.