16th September 2025, Kathmandu
The crucial Beni–Jomsom–Korala road, a vital artery in western Nepal, has been successfully reopened to traffic after a two-day closure caused by a massive landslide.
Beni–Jomsom–Korala Road Reopens
The disruption, which began early on Sunday morning, September 14, 2025 (Bhadra 28, 2082), at the treacherous Kavrebhir stretch, had completely halted the movement of cargo trucks, passenger vehicles, and locals. The reopening of the 76-kilometer route, which connects Beni in Myagdi district to Mustang and the Korala border with China, is a significant relief for trade, tourism, and the thousands of people who depend on it.
The Clearance Operation
The landslide at Kavrebhir, which is located on the border of Annapurna and Thasang Rural Municipalities, was particularly severe, with huge boulders and tons of debris making the road impassable. The clearance effort required a coordinated and swift response from multiple agencies. According to Assistant Inspector Min Bahadur Khatri of the Ghansa Police Post, the Nepali Army, technical staff from the Beni–Jomsom–Korala Road Project Office, and security personnel worked tirelessly to clear the road. The operation involved using controlled explosives to break apart the large boulders and bulldozers to remove the debris. The crews worked through challenging conditions, including heavy rain and unstable terrain, demonstrating their commitment to restoring the route as quickly as possible. Their efforts paid off, and by 10:00 pm on Monday, the road was declared safe and open for vehicular movement.
Resumption of Trade and Pilgrimage
The reopening of the road has immediate and widespread benefits. For trade, it allows for the resumption of movement for goods-laden containers traveling to and from the Korala border with China. This trade route is a critical gateway for commerce, and a prolonged closure could have had a significant economic impact. The road is also a lifeline for the agricultural sector, particularly for farmers in Mustang, whose livelihoods depend on the timely transportation of their produce. Trucks carrying the region’s famous apples and potatoes can now reach markets in Pokhara, Kathmandu, and other parts of the country, preventing spoilage and financial losses.
Culturally and religiously, the timing of the landslide was particularly impactful. The disruption occurred during Sohra Shraddha, a 16-day period in the lunar calendar when thousands of Hindu pilgrims travel to sacred sites to perform rituals for their ancestors. Many devotees were heading to holy sites like Kagbeni in Mustang. The closure delayed their journeys, highlighting how natural hazards in the Himalayas can affect not only economic life but also deeply held religious traditions. The reopening brings immense relief to these pilgrims, allowing them to continue their spiritual journeys.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
The incident at Kavrebhir serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of maintaining Nepal’s mountain highways. The Beni–Jomsom–Korala road, as part of the Kaligandaki Corridor, is a national pride project, but its construction and maintenance are fraught with difficulties due to the country’s rugged geography, unstable geology, and susceptibility to landslides, especially during the monsoon season. Experts and authorities continue to stress the need for regular maintenance, slope stabilization, and the implementation of early warning systems to mitigate future risks.
The swift and coordinated response by the authorities demonstrates the importance of a robust emergency preparedness plan. Their ability to quickly mobilize engineering teams and heavy equipment was key to a successful clearance operation. While the road is now open, travelers are advised to remain vigilant and check for updates on road conditions, as continued rainfall could lead to further disruptions. The incident underscores the resilience of Nepal’s infrastructure and its people in the face of natural challenges, but also the need for continuous investment in sustainable and disaster-resistant infrastructure to support the country’s economic and social development.
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