Gulmi's model bridge awaits handover

By Tilachan Pandey,Gulmi, Nov. 22: Although construction of the country’s model three-way suspension bridge in Gulmi has been completed, it has not yet been formally handed over to the authorities.

The foundation stone for the bridge was laid on December 1, 2014 (Mangsir 15, 2071 BS), and the structure was completed three years ago. 

The bridge is currently in use, but the official handover to the concerned office is still pending.

The model project, designed to connect Gulmi, Syangja and Palpa across the Kaligandaki River at Ridi, the junction of the three districts, was awarded to Naya Bato, Rubina and Mana JV.

On June 25, 2014 (Asar 10, 2071 BS), the construction company signed an agreement worth Rs 98.83 million with the Local Infrastructure Department’s Suspension Bridge Division Office, Pulchowk, to complete the bridge within three years. 

According to the Suspension Bridge Division Office in Kathmandu, construction was completed after three deadline extensions.

Prem Narayan Basyal, Information Officer, Suspension Bridge Division Office, stated that the handover has been delayed due to internal disputes among the contractors and a related case that is still under consideration at the Kaski District Court. 

He said the process will remain on hold until the dispute is resolved. Around 40 per cent of the payment from the government side is also yet to be made.

The bridge was initially planned to be inaugurated by then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba three years ago, but the event was cancelled due to the election code of conduct.

The office said long-term operation of the model three-way bridge will require coordination among all three local governments. Discussions are under way with local authorities of the three districts to ensure proper long-term management.

The bridge connects Ridi in Gulmi, Karikot-Chandibhanjyang in Syangja, and Argali in Palpa. The main pillar of the suspension bridge stands 177.4 metres long at the exact midpoint of the three districts. 

Local Chudamani Timilsina said visitors from across the country come to see the bridge. Crowds are especially large during New Year, Asare Ekadashi, Haribodhini Ekadashi and Makar Sankranti, with many people filming videos and capturing the views.

The foundation laying ceremony was carried out by then Chief Secretary Lilamani Paudel and MP of Gulmi Constituency-2 Chandra Bhandari.