In the wake of Saturday’s violent clash over the Pathibhara cable car project, several organisations have called for an indefinite transport shutdown on the Mechi Highway and the Tamor Corridor, starting Tuesday.

The call was made through a joint statement by the Mukumlung Protection Struggle Committee, the Cable Car Project Cancellation Struggle Committee, and other affiliated groups.

The protest, which centres on scrapping the cable car project and addressing related demands, follows a confrontation on Saturday between demonstrators and security forces in Pathibhara, a highly-revered pilgrimage site in eastern Nepal. The clash left several injured, including both protesters and police. Three seriously injured protesters were airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment after receiving preliminary care at Taplejung District Hospital and Nobel Hospital.

The injured include Yam Bahadur Limbu of Myanglung Municipality, Terhathum, and Sagun Lawati from ward 5 of Miklajung Municipality, Panchthar, both of whom sustained gunshot wounds. Another victim, Dharmendra Palungwa from ward 8 of Phungling Municipality, suffered shoulder injuries. Two others, who sustained minor injuries, were discharged after treatment.

The protesters reportedly attacked security forces with rocks and slingshots, prompting police to open fire in response. Both sides have blamed each other for instigating the violence. Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravi Rawal confirmed injuries among 12 police personnel, including Inspector Rohit Sharma, and nine Armed Police Force members.

Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the cable car project, the dismissal of the Pathibhara Area Development Committee, and public apologies from local officials, including the Chief District Officer and the chief of the Armed Police Force. They have also called for a ban on the entry of project representatives and certain officials into Taplejung.

The strike organisers have extended their protest to include a call for the closure of Global IME Bank branches in several districts, alleging the bank’s involvement in financing the project. They have announced a “peaceful sit-in” in front of the bank on Monday.

The Pathibhara cable car project, a source of contention, has sparked widespread resistance from locals and activists, who argue it threatens the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. Protesters have warned of escalating demonstrations if their demands are not met.