Kamala Bridge Reconstruction Nears Final Stage, Completion Target Set for End of Ashadh
Reconstruction of the long-delayed Kamala Bridge connecting Siraha and Dhanusha is progressing, with the construction team targeting completion by the end of Ashadh. The project is expected to reduce travel time and improve connectivity across Madhesh Province.
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Siraha: Reconstruction of the Kamala Bridge over the Kamala River, connecting Siraha and Dhanusha districts, has gathered pace, with the construction team aiming to complete the remaining work by the end of Ashadh.
The bridge, which has remained incomplete for nearly 14 years, is currently undergoing structural repairs and finishing work. The project is being accelerated to restore direct transportation between the two districts.
According to Sudip Thapa, site in-charge of Lumbini Builders, a team of around 40 to 50 workers is engaged in construction and repair activities every day.
Although the original contract was awarded to Pappu-Lumbini Joint Venture (JV), Lumbini Builders is now carrying out the remaining work independently after Pappu Construction was blacklisted by the government, Thapa said.
Thapa stated that approximately 40 per cent of the work has been completed, while the remaining 60 per cent is expected to be finished within the targeted timeframe. He expressed confidence that vehicles would be able to use the bridge by the end of Ashadh.
The bridge is part of the Hulaki Highway and has been a major concern for residents of Siraha and Dhanusha. Repeated delays by the construction contractor had left the project unfinished for years, forcing local people to depend on risky temporary crossings.
The incomplete bridge has also increased travel distances for people moving between the two districts. Local resident Shyam Sundar Singh of Siraha said that, without the direct crossing, travellers have had to take a route approximately 60 kilometres longer.
He added that the bridge's completion could reduce travel time by around one and a half hours, making daily movement considerably easier for local residents.
Construction activities have reportedly intensified following pressure from the government and the Department of Roads. Senior government officials and representatives of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure have also inspected the site and instructed those involved to avoid further delays.
Once operational, the bridge is expected to improve connectivity among Siraha, Dhanusha and neighbouring districts, including Saptari. It could also support local trade, transportation and economic activities across Madhesh Province.
For communities that have waited years for the project to be completed, the bridge represents an important step towards safer and more convenient transportation.