Rs 25 billion estimated for restoration of bridges, roads damaged by deluge

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 4: The estimated cost for repairing and reconstructing roads and bridges damaged by recent disasters is projected to be between Rs 20 and Rs 25 billion.

Last week's destruction of roads and bridges caused by floods and landslides, triggered by continuous rainfall, has placed a significant financial burden on the government to ensure the sustainable operation of essential infrastructure. The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport provided this estimate after inspecting the damaged roads and bridges.

Minister Devendra Dahal stated that he had contacted the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure immediate rescue and relief for transport workers stranded in various locations due to floods and landslides. "The general public is requested to avoid traveling during this adverse weather, and in case of necessity, to exercise extreme caution and preparedness," said Minister Dahal.

He added that coordination with transport operators, Nepal Police, and New Bus Park management has been established to ensure safe passage for passengers. Additionally, they were advised to implement advance ticketing starting from September 28.

The Ministry has coordinated efforts to ensure that passengers reach their destinations before evening.

Although a detailed assessment is ongoing, preliminary observations indicate that temporary restoration of damaged roads and bridges will require around Rs 3 billion, according to Minister Dahal.

Similarly, Ministry Secretary Keshav Kumar Sharma reported that more than 800 locations along 34 highways have been affected by landslides. Of these, debris has been cleared from 774 sites.

"All-out efforts are underway to clear obstructions at 31 locations on five major highways," he added. Heavy equipment and human resources have been mobilized across 29 highways to remove the blockages.

"Considering the Roshi River's current conditions, all possible measures have been put in place to temporarily resume transportation. Efforts are ongoing to clear landslides along the 80-km stretch from Dolalghat to Rakthum of the Mid Hill Highway," Secretary Sharma informed.