First-phase siren sounds at Kulekhani, Bhimphedi–Kulekhani road shut for 12 hours

After the water level rose at the Kulekhani reservoir in Makawanpur, a first-phase warning siren has been sounded, and vehicle movement has been halted on the Bhimphedi–Deurali–Kulekhani road.

According to the Kulekhani I Hydropower Station under the Nepal Electricity Authority, the siren was sounded after the water level reached about 1,528 meters. The station said a second-phase siren would be sounded if the dam gates need to be opened to release water.

According to the District Administration Office, Makawanpur, the reservoir's maximum capacity is about 1,530 meters, and the water level was expected to reach about 1,529 meters by Saturday evening. The water level has risen rapidly after continuous rainfall since Kartik 12 due to the effect of Cyclone Arnab.

On this short route connecting Hetauda with Kathmandu, the administration has banned all vehicle movement for 12 hours, from 5 pm Saturday to 5 am Sunday.

Chief District Officer Basanta Adhikari has urged people not to use the road during this risky period. The administration said that if the gates are opened, the flow in the Sisneri Khola and the lower stretches of the Bagmati River could suddenly increase.

Residents along the riverbanks have been asked not to go near the river and to stay in safe, elevated locations. They have also been asked to coordinate with security agencies when using the Deurali–Sisneri road section.