Stay Safe on Nepal’s Highways: Smart Steps During a Breakdown

Every driver in Nepal knows the unique challenges posed by our mountainous highways: relentless monsoon rains, narrow passes, landslides, and poor infrastructure. In 2022 alone, Nepal reported over 13,000 road accidents, resulting in more than 2,600 deaths. With figures like these, it's essential to understand how to handle a breakdown safely and effectively. Here’s your essential guide for staying safe and smart when your vehicle stops working in such conditions.

1. Ensure Visibility & Pull Over Safely

• Turn on hazard lights immediately. Let fellow drivers know your situation—rain, fog, or darkness amplify the risk.
• Move to the shoulder or as far off the road as possible, especially on tight mountain roads. Steer clear of blind curves or unstable edges.
• Place reflective triangles or warning signs at least 45 meters behind your vehicle to alert oncoming traffic.

2. Stay Inside—but Stay Prepared

• On high-speed or hazardous roads, it’s safer to stay inside your vehicle with seat-belt fastened. Exiting the vehicle increases the risk of being hit.
• If you do need to step out (e.g., to place warning signs), wear a reflective vest or bright clothing and only exit from the side away from traffic.

3. Request Help—Fast & Clearly

• Have these emergency numbers saved:
  • Police: 100
  • Ambulance: 102
  • Tourist Police: 1144
• Keep in mind, sometimes these emergency lines may not connect or respond promptly, so having towing service contacts ready can be a lifesaver.
• Useful services:
  • Bato Mechanic (service through mobile app and offline 24/7)
  • Nepal Automobile Association
  • Local towing providers (many operate 24/7 in major routes)
• Be ready to provide:
  • Your exact location (landmarks or GPS)
  • Vehicle make, model, color
  • Nature of the issue
  • Contact number

4. Use Available Resources & Know Your Tools

• Whenever possible, try basic troubleshooting if safe: check for a flat tire, inspect engine temperature, or attempt a jump start.
• Keep an emergency kit handy, including:
  • Flashlight
  • Jumper cables
  • Basic tools
  • Spare tire
  • Jack
  • First aid kit
  • Coolant and water
• Preventing breakdowns is equally important:
  • Regularly maintain battery, coolant, tires
  • Service your car before long drives
  • Monitor engine temperature and oil levels

5. Plan Ahead & Prepare Preventively

• Fill up fuel before long trips—fuel stations can be scarce in remote areas.
• Choose safe routes, avoid landslide-prone zones like Siddhababa or Madan Ashrit during the monsoon season:
  • The Madan Ashrit Highway disaster in July 2024 saw two buses pushed into the Trishuli River, claiming 19+ lives.
• Don’t ignore vehicle warning signs; neglecting minor issues can cause catastrophic breakdowns.
• Stay aware of road conditions: poor infrastructure, loose gravel, and rain-fed potholes are major contributors to engine and tire problems