Sixteen locations along the Dhading section of the Prithvi and Tribhuvan highways have been identified as highly vulnerable to landslides following continuous rainfall.

A joint inspection by the District Disaster Management Committee and technical experts on Saturday flagged the areas as prone to road collapse and landslides, posing a major threat to travel routes into Kathmandu.

Superintendent of Police Bheshraj Rijal of the District Police Office urged people to remain in safe locations, saying travel along the highway is not feasible. He said the most critical site is Jawangkhola in ward 10 of Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality.

Other vulnerable sites include Jhyaple Khola (old landslide zone), the tunnel route, Charkilo, Satkilo, Kamere Bhir, Mahesh Dobhan, Chiraudi Bridge, Jarekhet Bridge, Galaundi Bridge, Parewa Bhir, Hilltop Turn, Bandare Mod, Krishna Bhir and Laltin Bazar.

Officials said landslides could strike immediately in these areas if rain continues. Stranded vehicles at previous landslide points have been cleared and allowed to move.

Chief District Officer Bijaya Raj Subedi said vehicles are barred from entering high-risk zones, except for emergencies moving under security supervision.

The committee said risk-mitigation work is being carried out with the Department of Roads, police and local governments.