Surkhet, Karnali Province - July 20, 2025
In a significant move towards enhancing rural connectivity and safety, the Karnali Province government has initiated a plan to eliminate traditional ropeways (tuins) by replacing them with modern suspension bridges. As part of this policy-driven initiative, the provincial Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Urban Development has completed a comprehensive survey across 10 districts, identifying a total of 50 existing tuins still in use.
According to Ramesh Subedi, Senior Divisional Engineer and spokesperson of the ministry, the data collection is a preparatory step in implementing the government's ambitious goal of declaring Karnali a tuin-free province within the current fiscal year 2082/83.
Humla Tops the List
Among the districts surveyed, Humla accounts for the highest number of ropeways, with 15 tuins in operation-six of which span the dangerous currents of the Karnali River. Other districts with significant counts include Kalikot and Jajarkot, each with 12 tuins. The remaining ropeways are scattered across Surkhet (8), Dolpa (3), Dailekh (2), and Mugu (2).
However, complete data from Jumla, Dailekh, and Western Rukum is yet to be submitted, suggesting that the total number could be even higher.
Bridging Gaps with Suspension Structures
The replacement initiative is not just about infrastructure-it’s about ensuring human dignity, safety, and development in some of Nepal’s most remote and vulnerable regions. Many of these tuins are the only means for local residents-including schoolchildren, farmers, and traders-to cross perilous rivers. In past years, several incidents have been reported where people lost their lives while using these risky, manually-operated ropeways.
To address this, the provincial government has allocated NPR 15 million (1.5 crore) under the current fiscal year’s budget to begin constructing suspension bridges in place of these tuins.
A Step Toward Inclusive Development
The initiative aligns with broader national goals of equitable development and access to basic infrastructure, particularly in geographically challenging and underserved regions like Karnali. It also reflects Nepal’s commitment to sustainable rural infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, and improved human mobility.
Karnali’s move to remove all tuins could serve as a model for other provinces with similar challenges. Once implemented, this project will not only improve physical access but also contribute to better access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for thousands of Nepalis.
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