KATHMANDU: Local representatives in Khotang district have urged the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to construct a bailey bridge over the Sunkoshi River to connect Khotang and Udaypur districts. The proposed bridge would be built at Bangsilaghat, linking Baraha Pokhari Rural Municipality-5 in Khotang with Chaudandi Gadhi Municipality-1 in Udaypur.
The Ministry has given the representatives a favorable response in regards to their request. Following a recent discussion with representatives of both political parties, community people, and local leaders, it was decided to apply for government funding for this significant infrastructure project.
In the past, local leaders had advocated for a bailey bridge at Phoksingtar to improve transportation access to eastern Khotang towns. However, the current focus has shifted to Bangsilaghat, given its strategic importance for inter-district connectivity.
A suspension bridge currently spans Bangsilaghat, constructed six years ago at a cost of Rs 143 million, and measures 235 meters in length. While this bridge serves pedestrians, it cannot accommodate vehicles, prompting the call for a motorable bridge.
A motorable bridge project over the Sunkoshi River was initiated with a budget of Rs 191.8 million but remains only 25 percent complete. The project began on November 17, 2022, with an expected duration of 33 months.
The foundation stone for the motorable bridge was laid by former Foreign Minister Dr. Narayan Khadka on December 16, 2022. Despite the groundbreaking ceremony, significant progress has been stalled.
Shalikram Banjara, Chairman of Baraha Pokhari Rural Municipality, expressed frustration over the delays caused by the contractor, which have negatively impacted local communities reliant on better infrastructure.
The Road Department in Dharan has acknowledged the delay, attributing it to challenges in relocating the bridge's construction site and the absence of the contracted party. This has contributed to the project's slow pace.
Concerns over the motorable bridge's delay are mounting among local officials and the public, who are urging the Ministry to act swiftly to avoid further interruptions to daily life and commercial operations.
A vital component of enhancing connection and transportation between the Khotang and Udaypur districts is the projected Bailey Bridge at Bangsilaghat, particularly in view of the current difficulties with the motorable bridge project.
