Hetauda, June 10 -- A prolonged legal dispute over a highway widening project has left the centre of Hetauda in disarray for seven months, as court delays continue to stall work on one of Nepal's key road corridors.

Structures along the town's main market area were demolished on December 6 last year as part of a road widening drive. However, with the case still pending before the Supreme Court, the project remains incomplete, leaving damaged buildings, abandoned storefronts and unsafe conditions across the commercial hub.

Businesses that once operated from the demolished structures continue to function from partially damaged premises, increasing risks for traders and customers alike.

The uncertainty deepened after the Supreme Court iss...