Bardiya, Nepal (June 20, 2025): The long-awaited construction of a permanent bridge over the Babai River, connecting Madhuwan Municipality and Barbardiya Municipality, is progressing rapidly, bringing hope and relief to local residents. The 384-meter-long and 11-meter-wide concrete bridge, once completed, will replace the temporary and unsafe suspension bridges that have served the region.
Addressing a Lifelong Challenge
For years, locals have risked their lives navigating the river in small boats, particularly during monsoon floods, to access vital destinations like Hulaki Road and Gulariya. A suspension bridge built in 2016 was washed away by floods the following year, necessitating the construction of another temporary suspension bridge. Now, the permanent bridge promises a safer and more reliable solution.
Phulpati Chaudhary, a resident of Padnaha, Barbardiya Municipality-4, shared her relief: “We have endured years of unsafe river crossings. The new bridge is a beacon of hope for us.”
Boosting Agriculture and Local Economy
Barbardiya Municipality, a fertile agricultural hub, is expected to benefit significantly from the bridge. Farmers, like Ramlautan Tharu from Ward-2, anticipate easier transportation of crops and vegetables to major markets in Madhuwan and Gulariya, which could increase their income and economic opportunities.
Progress and Investment
The project, valued at NPR 494.857 million, was contracted to Him Dung & Thokar Construction under the supervision of the Bridge Sector Office, Banke, with a completion target of 42 months. According to engineer Laxman KC, over 55% of the construction work is complete, and progress is steady.
Sitaram Yogi, Ward Chairperson of Barbardiya Municipality-4, emphasized the significance of the project: “The diligent efforts of the contractors ensure that this bridge will transform connectivity for our municipality and fulfill a long-standing dream.”
A Step Toward Better Infrastructure
Since the adoption of Nepal's federal governance system, Bardiya has seen significant infrastructure development, with over a dozen major bridges constructed across the region, including Bhada, Saryu River, Bhankhola, and Lathuwaghat. The Babai River Bridge at Kusumbaghat is set to join this list, symbolizing progress and resilience for the people of Bardiya.
This transformative infrastructure project underscores Nepal’s commitment to improving connectivity and uplifting the lives of its citizens in rural and agricultural regions. Once completed, the Babai River Bridge will not only ease transportation but also enhance safety, economic activities, and overall development in the area.
