Kathmandu – For thousands of Nepalis hoping to reunite with their families for Dashain, travelling home has become a costly and uncertain journey this year, as flood- and landslide-damaged highways disrupt road transport and push more passengers towards domestic flights.
The damage to major highways, including sections of the Prithvi Highway, has disrupted long-distance bus services and stranded travellers. Although road repairs and traffic restoration are underway, journeys remain unpredictable in vulnerable areas where landslides, mudslides and further erosion could interrupt travel.
With road travel increasingly uncertain, Tribhuvan International Airport’s domestic terminal has come under mounting pressure as passengers seek alternatives. Airport authorities have prepared to extend domestic flight operations into late-night hours to accommodate increased demand during the festive rush.
But flying home is becoming a financial burden for many families. Airfares on some domestic routes have surged amid limited seat availability and increased demand. On October 5, one-way fares between Kathmandu and Dhangadhi were reported at up to Rs 22,180, exceeding the published maximum permitted fare of Rs 21,600.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has instructed domestic airlines not to increase existing fares amid the transport disruption and to ensure ticket availability. The directive reflects concerns that passengers should not face additional financial pressure while seeking safe ways home for the festival.
The crisis raises a broader question about Nepal’s transport resilience. Dashain, a time when families traditionally travel across the country to receive blessings, share meals and celebrate together, has exposed the vulnerability of road-dependent communities to extreme weather and inadequate infrastructure.
For many travellers, the choice is now between expensive air tickets and road journeys with uncertain arrival times. Others may have to postpone their plans altogether.
As Dashain begins, restoring safe highways, enforcing fair airfares and providing reliable travel information are essential to ensure that the journey home does not become another hardship for families already struggling with the consequences of floods and landslides.
