Humla:Travelers on the Humla-Surkhet road are facing significant challenges due to the poor condition of the highway. Known as the Karnali Corridor Highway, this road is plagued by frequent landslides, making travel difficult regardless of weather conditions.
According to National News Agency RSS, the deteriorating state of the Karnali Corridor has sparked criticism regarding the government’s involvement in road construction and maintenance. Nawaraj Rawat, a resident of Jaira, Sarkegaad Rural Municipality-1, expressed frustration after a hazardous three-day journey from Humla to Surkhet. He described the road as a punishment and lamented the lack of repairs and upgrades over the years.
Despite longstanding promises from politicians and policymakers about the development of the Karnali region, locals like Rawat argue that safe travel remains elusive. He highlighted the need for closer monitoring of construction quality and the effectiveness of budget allocations. Dil Bahadur Karki, a hotelier in Khachcha, Ward 1, and other residents have echoed these concerns, emphasizing the dangerous conditions of road sections such as Kabadi-Salisalla.
The Karnali Corridor is vital for connecting Humla with the national road network, impacting travel, transportation of essentials, healthcare access, and tourism. Local residents are urging the government to prioritize safety and regular maintenance to mitigate risks and improve travel conditions. They seek concrete actions from the authorities, rather than promises, to ensure reliable and safe transportation.