ILAM: Transportation services on the Mechi Highway have resumed after being blocked for nearly two months due to landslides.
The Ilam-Rajduwali road section in Ilam Municipality-9 has been reopened for light vehicles following extensive repair efforts by the Road Division, said Chief District Officer Lakshman Dhakal.
Chief Engineer Pawan Bhattarai noted that the road was made accessible for small passenger vehicles after the removal of landslide debris and the construction of a trench wall.
While small vehicles can now use the highway, construction work continues, and large and freight vehicles are currently advised to take alternative routes, specifically the Tilkeni-Simalgolai and Mechi corridor (Kechana-Kanchanjunga road), Bhattarai added.
The reopening of the highway facilitates travel between Jhapa and Taplejung, improving access for passengers and vehicles. During the closure, traffic was redirected through temporary diversions, which, despite being operational, posed challenges for travelers and businesses due to flooding issues.
The road had remained closed for a prolonged duration in this season.
