Decades-Long Delay Plagues Kamala River Bridge Construction, Frustrating Local Communities

Kathmandu. The failure to complete projects on time after securing contracts is an old problem in Nepal. More surprisingly, the trend of using these incomplete projects to solicit votes during elections and then neglecting them after winning is also recurring.

Many such projects in the Siraha and Saptari regions have remained unfinished for years, causing continuous hardship for the local populace. Among these, the most notorious and long-stalled project is the bridge under construction over the Kamala River, situated on the border of Siraha and Dhanusha districts. Nearly a decade and a half have passed since the construction of this bridge, which falls under the Hulaki Highway, began.

The contract agreement for this approximately 469-meter-long bridge was signed in 2068 BS, stipulating completion within three and a half years. However, as the work was not finished by the deadline, the deadline was extended multiple times. After progress stalled again, the contract management was changed.

When the construction was reportedly entering its final phase, a minor flood damaged some parts of the bridge. More than four years have passed since then, and the bridge's condition remains the same. Although the deadline for reconstruction has been extended multiple times, even the final deadline has passed. While work has reportedly resumed recently, there is no definite conclusion in sight.

Meanwhile, the contractor has already received most of the payment. Allegations of flaws in the bridge's design and irregularities in the construction process have also surfaced. It is reported that relevant bodies are currently investigating these matters.

The delay in the bridge construction has caused significant problems for local residents. They face the compulsion of crossing the river by boat during the monsoon season and using temporary structures during the dry season. Locals state that the currently constructed temporary diversion is also at risk of being washed away by floods.

Due to the absence of the bridge, they have to take long detours even for short distances. A journey that should normally take half an hour currently takes more than an hour and a half.

Despite inspections, monitoring, and assurances from various levels over the years, the work has failed to gain momentum. Locals complain that although the commitment of 'construction will be completed soon' is repeated every time, there is no visible change in practice.

This bridge becomes a major agenda item during elections. Promises were made to prioritize it in previous elections as well. This commitment has been repeated this time too. However, after receiving only repeated assurances, local trust is diminishing. Photo: Prakash Chand Timilsina/Nepal Photo Library