Palpa, July 19 -- Fatal accidents along the Siddhababa section of Siddhartha Highway have fallen significantly over the past seven years, with police attributing the decline to improved driver awareness, stricter traffic enforcement and restrictions on vehicles during heavy rainfall.

The stretch was once notorious for frequent crashes during the monsoon, with landslides, falling rocks and speeding vehicles causing repeated casualties. But authorities say preventive measures and changing driving behaviour have helped reduce accidents in recent years.

Superintendent of Police Dipendra Panjiyar Tharu, chief of the District Police Office, Palpa, said drivers are now more aware of the dangers posed by the section and are more likely to follo...