Phungling (Taplejung): A clash between police and locals protesting the construction of a cable car in Pathibhara left five people injured on Saturday. The incident occurred at Baludanda, located above Kaflepati.

Chief District Officer Netra Prasad Sharma reported that three members of the Armed Police Force (APF) and two protesters sustained injuries during the clash, which escalated after protesters began pelting stones at the police. The District Police Office stated that three khukuris, a slingshot, and other items were recovered from the protesters.

According to Deputy Superintendent of the Armed Police Force Naresh Maharjan, the recovered items were seized during a search conducted following reports that the protesters were armed.

Despite the tensions, the construction work for the cable car, led by Himalayan Construction Private Limited, is moving forward with plans to complete the project within 15 months.

The District Administration Office has confirmed that the situation in the area has now returned to normal.