Panchthar, Oct. 6 -- The Mechi Highway-the lifeline connecting the eastern districts of Jhapa, Ilam, Panchthar, and Taplejung-has been brought to a standstill after massive landslides and floods triggered by incessant rainfall on Saturday night. The disruption has cut off several settlements and villages, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded, fuel stations dry, and local administrations scrambling to restore connectivity.

Officials said the continuous downpour on Friday and Saturday caused over 80 major and minor landslides along the highway section between Ilam and Panchthar. Key road segments - from Jorkalas to Phikkal, Godak, Rajdhuwali, Ilam Bazaar, Dhobhidhara, Biblate, Puwakhola, Rakse, Nepaltar, Ranke, and Phidim - have been bu...