Operations of long-distance vehicles and those entering or leaving the Kathmandu Valley have been suspended for three days starting today.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) issued a public notice citing heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and the risk of floods, landslides, and other potential disasters. Vehicle operations are banned until Monday.

The notice urged commuters and transport operators to avoid travel except for emergencies and requested district officials and security agencies to monitor and enforce the restriction.

Authorities have stepped up preparations in response to the forecast. On Thursday, NDRRMA held a virtual meeting with chief district officers and senior officials nationwide. Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal instructed agencies to complete all preparations, stay alert, and avoid past lapses that had fuelled public dissatisfaction.

According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces. Sudden flooding is likely in rivers around Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Rasuwa, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, and Rautahat.

The Nepali Army has kept six helicopters on standby for relief and rescue operations. Police and Armed Police Force chiefs have confirmed full mobilisation of their forces. Home Secretary Rameshwar Dangal directed district committees to suspend nighttime highway travel if needed, halt trekking activities, and relocate residents from high-risk areas.

The National Emergency Operations Centre will remain fully functional 24/7, and emergency warehouses are ready for immediate use, NDRRMA spokesperson Shanti Mahat said.