Pathibhara protesters block traffic on Mechi Highway and Tamor Corridor

 Nepal: A group of demonstrators identifying as the ‘No Cable Car Group’ have shut down traffic on the Mechi Highway and Tamor Corridor since Tuesday, intensifying their protest against the controversial Pathibhara cable car project.

 

Protesters began blocking the roads early in the morning, bringing all vehicular movement to a standstill. Shree Lingkhim, the protest leader, claimed the traffic had been completely halted on both routes.

 

Several organisations spearhead the demonstration, including the Mukkumlung Struggle Committee, the Cable Car Scrap Struggle Committee, and Kirat Yakthung Chumlung.

 

Their demands include the immediate scrapping of the cable car project, free medical treatment for those injured during recent clashes, and the release of two individuals detained during protests on Saturday.

 

Tensions flared on Saturday when violence erupted between the ‘No Cable Car Group’ and police near Kafle Pati in the Pathibhara region. The clash, which occurred at Baludanda, approximately one kilometre from Kafle Pati, left four people injured. Police arrested Laxman Limbu and Chandra Sagar Limbu during the confrontation.

 

The Pathibhara cable car project has faced fierce resistance from locals and activists, who argue that it poses a significant threat to the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. Protesters have vowed to escalate their demonstrations if their demands are not addressed promptly.