KATHMANDU: Floods have damaged 35 bridges along the Trishuli and Bhotekoshi river corridors, with span lengths ranging from 10 metres to 200 metres, according to the Department of Roads.
Data from the department shows that the damaged structures include 11 long bridges measuring between 100 and 200 metres, nine medium bridges between 50 and 86 metres, and 15 smaller bridges ranging from 10 to 40 metres.
To restore movement in the affected areas, bailey bridges of corresponding lengths are required. However, the Department of Roads currently holds only 10 bailey bridges capable of spanning up to 50 metres, while the Nepal Army has three units measuring 73 metres.
Because smaller bailey bridges cannot be installed across longer spans, authorities have initiated diplomatic efforts with India, China, and international donor agencies to secure larger bailey bridges for locations requiring spans over 70 metres.
Among the damaged infrastructure, the longest bridges are the 200-metre Ghatbesi bridge in Dhading and the 200-metre Keurini-Phosretar bridge in Nuwakot. Other major destroyed structures include the 190-metre bridge near Devighat along the Mid-Hill Highway, as well as long spans at Khadgabhanjyang-Shreekhali, Ratamate, and Baireni-Syalhtar.
