Bailey Bridge Installation Accelerated at Flood-Damaged Simkhola, Kulekhani

Post-Flood Reconstruction Efforts Underway

Authorities in Makwanpur district have intensified efforts to install a Bailey bridge at Simkhola near the Kulekhani Hydropower Project after continuous rainfall from October 10-12 caused severe flooding and damaged critical infrastructure. The 57-meter temporary bridge, now 80% complete, is being constructed using repurposed materials from two other nearby bridges (13m from Ghatekhola and 50m from Mandu Khola) to expedite the process.

Tight Deadline for Restoration

The Department of Transportation Infrastructure in Hetauda has set an ambitious target to complete the bridge by mid-August (Sawan 15) to restore the vital Hetauda-Kathmandu transport link. "We're working round-the-clock with specialized teams and equipment to meet this deadline," said Chief Engineer Naveen Kumar Singh. Currently, vehicles are being diverted through alternative routes, causing significant travel disruptions.

Contractor Mobilizes Resources

Gaurav Engineers Pvt. Ltd., the firm awarded the 1.79 million NPR contract, began preparatory work in April. They have already completed foundational tasks including access road construction and machinery embankments. The floods occurred when authorities opened dam gates to prevent overflow, subsequently washing away parts of the Simkhola bridge and adjacent roads.

Strategic Importance

The Kulekhani route serves as a crucial alternative to the busier Tribhuvan Highway, especially during monsoon-related blockages. This marks the third major infrastructure challenge in the area this year, following earlier landslides on the Bhimphedi-Kulekhani stretch. Local authorities are coordinating with the hydropower project management to implement long-term flood mitigation measures alongside the temporary bridge installation.