Last Updated on September 22, 2026 by alizni
Heavy monsoon rains and subsequent flooding in Nepal have caused severe damage to critical highway networks, disrupting travel and trade across the country. Among the hardest-hit routes is the Galchhi-Syabrubesi road section, which connects Dhading to Rasuwa. Recognizing the strategic importance of this corridor, the Government of Nepal has fast-tracked repair and reconstruction efforts. The ambitious target is to fully restore traffic operations by the end of the Nepali month of Ashoj (mid-October). This massive undertaking involves multiple government agencies, engineering teams, and the Nepal Army working around the clock to clear debris, rebuild damaged tracks, and construct temporary bridges.
Progress on the Galchhi to Bidur Section
Significant progress has already been achieved on the southern stretch of the highway. The road section stretching from Galchhi in Dhading to Bidur in Nuwakot has been successfully repaired and cleared for vehicular movement. One of the major milestones in this phase was the swift installation of an Acrow bridge at Devighat. This temporary steel bridge was crucial to bypassing a severely washed-out section, allowing construction vehicles and light traffic to resume movement. The completion of this segment provides a major boost to local communities and serves as a vital supply line for the ongoing repair works further north.
Nepal Army’s Blasting Operations in Bidur
While the Galchhi-Bidur stretch is operational, the segment passing through Bidur itself presented severe engineering challenges due to massive landslides and rockfalls. The damage was so extensive that conventional heavy machinery could not clear the path. Consequently, the Nepal Army was mobilized to assist in the operations. Military engineers have commenced controlled blasting operations to cut through solid rock faces and open up a new track. This high-risk operation is being conducted with utmost precision to ensure safety while maintaining a rapid pace. The mobilization of the armed forces highlights the urgency and national importance of restoring this transit corridor.
Significance of the Galchhi-Syabrubesi Highway
The Galchhi-Syabrubesi-Rasuwagadhi road is not just a regional highway; it is a lifeline for bilateral trade between Nepal and China. As an alternative to the Tatopani border crossing, this route handles a significant volume of imports, including clothing, electronics, machinery, and festive goods ahead of major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar. A prolonged closure of this highway could lead to severe supply shortages and price hikes in Kathmandu and other major cities. Additionally, the road is vital for local commuters, agricultural transport, and tourists heading toward the Langtang national park region.
Challenges and Next Steps for Complete Restoration
Despite the rapid progress, workers on the ground face continuous challenges. The terrain remains highly unstable due to saturated soil from the monsoon rains, posing a constant threat of fresh landslides. Ensuring the safety of the workers and the durability of the temporary repairs is a delicate balancing act. After the Nepal Army successfully opens the track in Bidur, the next phase will involve leveling the roadbed, installing retaining walls, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent future washouts. Government officials are closely monitoring the daily progress to ensure that the mid-October deadline is met without compromising safety standards.
Conclusion
The swift response of the Nepalese government, coupled with the technical expertise of the Nepal Army, demonstrates a commendable commitment to restoring national infrastructure. Reopening the Galchhi-Syabrubesi road by the end of Ashoj will bring immense relief to traders, travelers, and local residents alike. As work continues at a rapid pace, stakeholders remain optimistic that normal traffic flow will resume shortly, restoring vital connectivity ahead of the peak festive season.