BAGLUNG: A significant flood in Nisikhola rural municipality-4 in Baglung, has completely blocked the Burtibang–Rukum East section of the Mid-Hill (Pushpalal) Highway.

The flood that occurred on Sunday night was triggered by continuous rainfall. It originated from the local Kalapaira Khola (stream), according to ward chair Tikanidhi Paudel.

As a result, vehicles traveling from Rukum East to Kathmandu and Pokhara have been stranded at Kalapaira. Similarly, vehicles heading to Rukum East and Rolpa via Nisi and Valkot from Burtibang are stuck at Kanabagar, he added.

Local authorities, in coordination with the Highway management officials, are working to restore the road, though partially.

However, landslides at multiple points along the highway, coupled with fallen trees, have worsened the situation. Debris continues to flow whenever the rain resumes, making the task of restoring traffic flow particularly difficult.

“There hasn’t been such a significant flood here before,” said ward chair Paudel. “Vehicular movement has come to a complete halt. We are trying to open at least one lane. Due to the extent of the damage, it will take time to fully reopen the route.”

In addition to the highway closure, all rural roadways in Nisikhola remain disrupted due to rain-caused landslides.