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🇳🇵 Nepal /Energy & Infrastructure

Bridge ends years of deadly river crossings for Chepang villages

From Kathmandu Post · (34m ago) English Positive tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • A new bridge is under construction over the Kayar river in Nepal's Chitwan district, aiming to connect remote Chepang villages and improve access to markets and healthcare.
  • The bridge's construction is a response to years of dangerous river crossings during monsoons, which have claimed lives and isolated communities.
  • Funded by Kalika Municipality after federal and provincial funding failed to materialize, the 40-meter bridge is expected to benefit 10,000-12,000 residents, particularly the marginalized Chepang community, and is slated for completion by January 2027.

For too long, the Kayar river has been a symbol of fear and isolation for the Chepang communities in Chitwan. Every monsoon, it transforms from a gentle stream into a deadly torrent, cutting off villages, endangering children on their way to school, and preventing the sick from receiving timely medical care. The tragic death of Gambhir Bahadur Chepang last July, swept away by the floodwaters, underscores the desperate need for this bridge.

He might still be alive if there had been a bridge here.

— Namuna ChepangA relative of Gambhir Bahadur Chepang, who drowned trying to cross the river, commenting on the necessity of the new bridge.

It is disheartening that despite the clear and present danger, repeated requests for federal and provincial funding fell on deaf ears. The Kalika Municipality, recognizing the urgency and the human cost of inaction, has taken the commendable step of funding this vital infrastructure project itself. This initiative by the local government demonstrates a commitment to its citizens that has been lacking at higher levels.

There was always anxiety during the rainy season. Now maybe our children will not have to go through the same suffering.

— Namuna ChepangExpressing relief and hope with the rising structure of the bridge.

The construction of this 40-meter bridge, expected to be completed by January 2027, is more than just an engineering feat; it represents the end of a long period of anxiety and suffering for thousands of residents. It promises year-round access to markets, health services, and educational opportunities, particularly for the marginalized Indigenous Chepang community. This project highlights the importance of local governance in addressing the immediate needs of the people when national support is absent.

We used to risk our lives just to sit for examinations.

— Nabin Praja ChepangRecalling the perilous journeys to school using ropes over the river.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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