Image Source: NewsOnAir
Nepal marked a milestone in infrastructure and cross-border cooperation as the nation’s longest modular bridge, built with Indian assistance, was inaugurated over the Hewa Khola river in Panchthar district. The 70-meter span structure, now a vital lifeline for the local population, is set to transform regional connectivity, disaster resilience, and Indo-Nepal relations.
Key Highlights from the Inauguration
The bridge was jointly inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava and Nepal’s Minister of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, reflecting the deepening partnership between the two neighboring countries.
Spanning the Hewa Khola river, the bridge connects the northern and southern parts of Koshi province, specifically facilitating movement between Phidim and Hilihang, and linking up with the critical Mechi Highway.
This modular steel structure, locally known as a Bailey bridge, is the longest of its type ever installed in Nepal, measuring 70 meters.
Installation was technically challenging; after two failed attempts, Indian technicians from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) worked alongside over 35 Nepali professionals, providing both hands-on construction expertise and valuable skills transfer to their Nepali counterparts.
Humanitarian and Strategic Context
The Hewa Khola crossing has been a sensitive point since devastating floods washed away a concrete bridge in June 2023. A subsequent Bailey bridge was also lost to floods in September 2024.
Restoration of connectivity via this modular bridge brings direct relief to local communities who had been relying on unsafe diversions during dry periods and were left isolated during monsoons.
Tragically, the second installation attempt in June 2024 saw the collapse of the bridge, resulting in loss of life. The success of this third installation not only demonstrates engineering resilience but is also seen as a tribute to those who worked on prior efforts.
Scope of Indian Assistance
The Hewa Khola project is part of a broader Indian grant supporting post-flood infrastructure recovery in eastern Nepal, including the supply of 10 prefabricated steel bridges worth over NPR 40 crore.
Materials and technical support for these projects have contributed to capacity building, with 35 Nepali engineers and workers gaining valuable experience in modular bridge construction.
The Indian intervention came at a crucial time to help restore vital road infrastructure, support economic recovery, and ensure safer passage for goods and people.
Regional Impacts and Future Outlook
The new bridge improves accessibility between Panchthar, Taplejung, Ilam, and Jhapa districts, facilitating quicker disaster response and stimulating local economic activities.
It stands as a symbol of regional friendship and collaboration, as well as a showcase for rapid deployment modular infrastructure in disaster-prone areas.
Ongoing India-Nepal cooperation initiatives continue in the fields of road construction, energy, healthcare, and education.
Conclusion
The inauguration of Nepal’s longest modular bridge in Panchthar not only bridges physical divides within Koshi province but also strengthens ties across borders. This project exemplifies how technical expertise, international partnership, and perseverance can overcome adversity—paving the way for safer, more resilient communities.
Sources: The Tribune India, Rising Nepal Daily, News On Air
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