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The Khandbari-Kimathanka road segment along the Koshi Highway has been reopened to traffic after 80 days. 

The road had been blocked since August 31 due to landslides in the Samtar and Alphate regions of Bhote Khola Rural Municipality-3. 

The North-South Koshi Road Project Office announced that the road has been reopened following extensive repairs and landslide clearance efforts conducted over a prolonged period. 

Project Chief Ram Bahadur Gurung noted that the successful reopening of the road was made possible through the collaborative efforts of local residents, construction contractors, and the project office. 

"The challenging terrain and persistent rainfall caused delays in the maintenance work," he stated. "After nearly 80 days of relentless effort, we have managed to make the road operational again." He also mentioned that the stone 'soling' and 'graveling' work on the road has been finalized.

Three persons died and nine others were injured when a tractor carrying mourners met with an accident at Dhabeni rivulet in Lamkichuha Municipality, Kailali district today. 

The deceased have been identified as Dan Bahadur Saud (64), Harka Saud (34) and Shital Saud (16) of Bardagoria Rural Municipality-4, according to Police Inspector at the Area Police Office, Lamki, Lokendra Bahadur Singh. 

The accident took place when the tractor (Sudurpaschim Province 01002 Ta 4951) was heading towards Chisapani from Bardagoria Rural Municipality-5.  

Locals and police personnel rescued the injured and sent them to Lamki-based Lal Ratna Hospital for treatment. 

Details of the incident are awaited. 

Starting this year, the date of Nepal Sambat will appear on Nepali banknotes. 

During a press conference held today by Shankhadhar Sakhwa: Pratishthan Bhaktapur, it was announced that a formal declaration will take place during a wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of Shankhadhar Sakhwa (National luminary) by Prime Minister Sushila Karki on October 22, Wednesday, in celebration of the Nepal Sambat 1146 New Year. 

Gyanram Shrestha, the chairman of the Pratishthan, revealed that an agreement was reached with the Prime Minister during discussions, and the official announcement is set for Wednesday. 

He remarked, “Nepal Sambat is not solely for the Newars; it is a distinctive calendar for all Nepalis. Discussions with the Prime Minister have taken place regarding this, and preparations are in progress for the announcement during Wednesday's event.” 

Chairman Shrestha noted that on the New Year of Nepal Sambat, Wednesday, the program will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Karki, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Shankhadhar Sakhwa statue. 

Former chairman of the institution, Shyam Krishna Manandhar, reported that all preparations for the program have been finalized.

The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) of Nepal and the Center for Strategic Research (CSR) under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in research and dialogue on matters of shared interest.

The agreement – signed by the founder of AIDIA Sunil KC and CSR Chair Usmonzoda Khairiddin Usmon – allows joint studies, exchange of experts, and collaborative participation in academic and policy forums held in Nepal and Tajikistan, reads a statement issued by the AIDIA.

“Both institutions have agreed to undertake joint projects in areas that contribute to regional understanding, constructive engagement, and economic diplomacy,” said KC, after signing the agreement.

As part of the partnership, AIDIA and the CSR will co-host the ‘Dushanbe Dialogue’ – a forum established under the theme ‘Where Center Meets South’.

The dialogue will focus on key subjects including energy, security, artificial intelligence, and climate change, according to the agreement.

“It is intended to serve as a meeting ground for scholars, researchers, and policymakers to exchange perspectives on regional and global developments,” said Usmon, the statement further reads.  

KC stated that the collaboration represents a step forward in building sustained academic and policy ties between Nepal and Tajikistan.

Both organizations affirmed their shared commitment to fostering knowledge-based cooperation that contributes to peace, development, and mutual understanding.