National Highway 40 (Nepal)

National Highway 40 (NH40), also known as the Karnali Highway, is a highway in Nepal. It serves as a vital transportation link connecting the remote Karnali Province to the rest of the country. The highway's route primarily follows the Karnali River, traversing challenging mountainous terrain.

The highway begins in the plains of Nepalgunj in Banke District, Province No. 5, and extends northwards through Surkhet and Dailekh Districts, eventually reaching Jumla, the headquarters of Jumla District in Karnali Province. It represents a crucial artery for the region, facilitating the movement of goods, services, and people.

The Karnali Highway is known for its challenging road conditions, particularly during the monsoon season when landslides and road closures are common. Ongoing efforts are focused on improving the road infrastructure to ensure safer and more reliable transportation. The highway's construction and maintenance are essential for the economic and social development of the Karnali region, improving access to healthcare, education, and markets for the local population.

The highway's alignment and construction have faced considerable engineering challenges due to the steep slopes, unstable geology, and remote locations. The ongoing development and improvement projects are crucial to ensuring the long-term viability and accessibility of the highway.