Num is barely 40 km away from Khandbari, the district headquarters of Sankhuwasabha. However, traversing this distance along the Koshi Highway during this particular season takes over 5 hours due to worsening road condition. This situation is causing considerable hardship to both the locals and the vehicles operating in the area. Moreover, the time that could otherwise be used productively is being adversely affected. The condition of the road is progressively deteriorating with each passing day, and though there are many factors contributing to this, the unfortunate reality is that we are compelled to undertake journeys under such unfavorable circumstances.
Imagining the possibility of a medical emergency under these circumstances is a source of great concern. The present conditions don’t allow for the luxury of falling ill in this region. Despite the intended purpose of this highway being the enhancement of the local standard of living and the establishment of a crucial trade link between China and India, the reality is that the highway remains untapped in terms of its potential. It is a situation where the promise of progress and connectivity is yet to be realised.
