Suspension bridge brings relief to students

By Toplal Aryal,Gulmi, (Resunga), Mar. 21: Crossing the Chhaldi Khola had been a major challenge for locals whenever it swelled after rainfall. Residents from Tari in the Chhaldi area had no choice but to wade through the river during the monsoon to reach the large agricultural fields. 

Students from Palukha Secondary School also faced a difficult choice; either take a long detour to reach school or risk crossing the river directly.

Now, a suspension bridge has been constructed to connect Chhaldi Tari and Palukha in Isma Rural Municipality–2. Built through the Road Infrastructure Development Office in Tamghas, the 146-metre-long bridge aims to make daily travel safer and more convenient for both residents and students.

The construction contract was awarded to Aastha Samjhana JV, Arghakhanchi, for Rs. 17.18 million. The contractor had agreed to complete the work by August 19, 2025, but the bridge was finished five months ahead of schedule, delighting the local community.

During the rainy season, rising water levels posed serious risks for residents, especially children, the elderly, the sick, and students. Without the bridge, students were sometimes prevented from attending school. 

“Students used to cross the river reluctantly to reach school, and locals struggled to transport goods across safely. We are pleased the bridge was completed before the monsoon,” said Ram Prasad Ghimire, a local resident of Isma Rural Municipality–2.

The newly built bridge is located right at the entrance of Palukha Secondary School, bringing the most joy to students and teachers. According to the school principal, Baburam Khatri, the bridge has removed the long-standing hardship that students and staff faced during heavy rainfall.

The bridge will also benefit students from nearby villages such as Sirpu, Rale, Tarai, Hulake, Gharti Phant, and Guruwa. Currently, Palukha Secondary School has 351 students.