Three years on, Narayani iconic bridge project yet to take shape

Physical progress on Nepal's much-anticipated Narayani iconic bridge remains minimal, with only foundation work underway, despite a contract awarded three years ago. The project, designed to link Narayangarh and Gaindakot, has been plagued by delays, primarily stemming from repeated design revisions that postponed approval for over a year.

Santosh Bhandari, site engineer at the Division Road Office in Bharatpur, explained that the "design approval was delayed by around 16 months due to modifications," directly affecting construction. The contract with Tundi Construction was signed on June 2, 2023, requiring design completion within one year and construction within the subsequent three. However, design approval was only granted in November last year, significantly behind schedule.

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The design approval was delayed by around 16 months due to modifications. That delay has directly affected construction progress.

Commuters like Gita Paudel, who frequently crosses the existing Narayani bridge, voice frustration over the slow pace. "I saw the prime minister and ministers lay the foundation stone, but the work appears very slow," she said. The current bridge often experiences vibrations under heavy traffic and congestion, raising concerns about its longevity as the new project lags.

Construction of the bridge's two main towers has yet to commence. While concrete testing for the foundation pile on the Narayanghat side is complete, load testing is pending. Work is currently focused on the abutment foundation, with two of the eight required 35-meter deep piles finished. Tower construction is not expected to begin until after the monsoon season, further pushing back the project's completion.

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I saw the prime minister and ministers lay the foundation stone, but the work appears very slow. I hope the new bridge is completed before anything happens to the old one.