For the first time ever, a bus has reached Malkwang in Ward No. 5 of Dhawalagiri Rural Municipality—one of Nepal’s geographically remote and difficult-to-access regions.
A passenger bus (registration number ध१ख ३०८) traveled from the district headquarters, Beni Bazaar, to Malkwang on Saturday, marking a historic moment for the local community.
Bus owner Jagat Dagami Magar and driver Shyam Mijar were welcomed with vermillion powder and garlands by enthusiastic residents. Ward Chair Amar Chhantyal, along with local representatives, community leaders, mothers’ groups, and youth clubs, celebrated their arrival.
According to Ward Chair Chhantyal, Malkwang was connected to the road network only in 2078 BS, and until now, only jeeps, tractors, and motorcycles could reach the area. During monsoon road repairs, steep segments and turns were improved, making bus service possible.
After five years of being linked to the road network, regular bus service has finally begun. Locals expressed happiness, noting that bus fares are more affordable compared to jeeps. Previously, passengers had to pay Rs 1,000 for the Malkwang–Beni trip by jeep.
Now, the bus fare has been set at Rs 750 per person.
The distance between Beni and Malkwang is 45 km, and the new service is expected to benefit more than 300 families across Malkwang, Bhedikhaltha, Kuinekhan, Arbang, and Ghantibang.
The road is built to allow bus operation for eight months of the year, except during peak monsoon (Ashad to Asoj). Myagdi Transport Pvt. Ltd. will operate one bus daily from Beni at 7:00 AM and from Malkwang at 8:00 AM.
Until now, residents from Malkwang, Bhedikhaltha, Arbang, Ghantibang, and Kuinekhan had to walk to Marang Bensi to catch a bus. To improve connectivity further, Dhawalagiri Rural Municipality has allocated Rs 3 million this fiscal year to extend and upgrade the road from Malkwang to Bhedikhaltha.
Bhedikhaltha still lacks road access, but the Gandaki Province government has launched a multi-year plan to upgrade the road connecting Bimlurwang–Marang Bensi–Arbang to Malkwang. This year, Rs 10 million has been allocated for the project.
Provincial Assembly Member Resham Jugjali emphasized securing 20% of the required budget—around Rs 50 million—to initiate the multi-year contract. He also stated that efforts are underway to upgrade difficult road sections between Lurwang and Malkwang to ensure smoother travel.
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