Deteriorating bridges turn Kaligandaki Corridor travel risky in Baglung–Gulmi stretch

Travel along the Baglung-Gulmi section of Nepal's Kaligandaki Corridor has become increasingly perilous due to the dilapidated state of approximately a dozen bridges. These temporary structures, installed by the Nepali Army over a decade ago, are now severely worn out, with nine bridges identified as particularly vulnerable – three in Baglung and six in Gulmi.

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The bridges are in a dangerous condition, and there is real fear of accidents. It has already been 12 years since these temporary bridges were installed by the Army, but there is still no sign of permanent structures.

The lack of permanent bridge construction at these critical points forces vehicles to cross the aging structures at significant risk. Despite the road being blacktopped and experiencing daily traffic, including dozens of vehicles, repair work or new construction has not materialized. The bridges exhibit heavy rusting, with deck panels shaking and surfaces worn and slippery, raising serious concerns among locals and commuters.

"The bridges are in a dangerous condition, and there is real fear of accidents," said Hari Bahadur Chhetri, a resident of Jaimini Municipality. "It has already been 12 years since these temporary bridges were installed by the Army, but there is still no sign of permanent structures."

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This bridge was only designed for small vehicles, so heavy traffic is dangerous.

The corridor has seen a notable increase in traffic in recent years, serving pilgrims and tourists traveling between Bhairahawa and Muktinath, as well as Indian visitors. Heavy trucks transporting goods also frequently use the route. Local residents like Omkar Thapa highlight that even pedestrians face risks, particularly at the Palung river bridge connecting Baglung and Gulmi, where the steep river and cliffs make crossing difficult. Settlements along the corridor have grown into roadside hubs, but the failing bridges threaten safety and accessibility.

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Bridges at major and high-risk locations have still not been built. Either they have not been recognised as risky, or they h