Nov 20, Kathmandu - To support Nepal’s post-flood and landslide recovery efforts, the Indian government has generously provided 10 Bailey bridges to Nepal. The first of these bridges was officially handed over to the Nepal government during a ceremony held in Hetauda on Thursday.

The event was attended by Nepal’s Minister of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Kulman Ghising, and Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, who presented the bridge to Nepali officials.

This aid comes in response to the devastating damage caused by recent floods and landslides, particularly in eastern Nepal’s Koshi Province and surrounding areas, which have severely disrupted transportation networks. The bridges are intended to aid in the reconstruction of damaged roads, facilitating smoother transportation and recovery.

According to Vijay Jaisi, Director General of the Department of Roads, Nepal had requested this support, similar to last year’s aid. Following heavy rainfall that caused extensive damage in regions like Ilam, India swiftly provided technical assistance and additional Bailey bridges to help restore connectivity.

The bridges, each over 70 meters long, 4.25 meters wide (single lane), and capable of bearing loads up to 38 metric tons, will be installed at key locations such as Hewa Khola, Bagmati River, and Larcha. Once installed, they are expected to significantly improve traffic flow and rehabilitation efforts across affected zones.

Keshav Kumar Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, mentioned that a team of engineers from the Indian construction company 'Garden Reach' is preparing to assist with the installation. The team will also provide training to Nepali engineers, enhancing local capacity for bridge construction and maintenance.

This collaboration marks a vital step towards rebuilding Nepal’s transportation infrastructure and strengthening bilateral ties between the two neighbouring nations.