Kathmandu— The Dukhukhola motorable bridge in Nepal’s Myagdi district, connecting Beni with western parts of the region, is facing imminent danger from ongoing river erosion. Recent floods in the steep Dukhukhola River have undermined the bridge's foundations and damaged protective structures, raising concerns about potential disruption to transportation and access for communities and construction projects. The Infrastructure Development Office, Myagdi, has initiated emergency work to divert the river and reinforce the bridge’s pillars, but local residents are urging swift action to prevent a collapse.

Erosion Intensifies After Previous Damage

The Dukhukhola bridge, located on the border of Mangala and Malika Rural Municipalities, was previously threatened by erosion last year. The Infrastructure Development Office responded at that time by installing gabion structures to provide protection. However, recent monsoon floods have overwhelmed these defenses, with floodwater now flowing beneath the foundation on the Mangala side of the bridge and narrowing the adjacent road.

Local resident Shriram Paudel expressed concern about the deteriorating situation, stating that the protective structures had been damaged by the floodwaters and that river erosion was also endangering the roadway. He emphasized the urgent need for intervention from concerned authorities to safeguard the bridge.

Critical Infrastructure at Risk

The bridge is a vital transportation artery for western Myagdi district, facilitating access to Beni, the district headquarters. It’s particularly important for passenger vehicles and heavy trucks transporting materials to several hydropower projects currently under construction in the region. Paudel warned that if the bridge were to collapse, it would sever direct road connectivity.

The 20-meter long and six-meter wide structure cost Rs20.6 million to build and was completed in 2019.

Emergency Response Underway

The Infrastructure Development Office, Myagdi, began work on Saturday to address the immediate threat. Senior Divisional Engineer Dr Mahendra Baniya confirmed that a dozer has been deployed to divert the river’s course and construction of protective walls around the bridge pillars and approach road is underway.

Dr. Baniya urged travelers to exercise caution while using the bridge, acknowledging that it remains at risk despite the ongoing efforts.

Work to stabilize the Dukhukhola bridge is continuing, with authorities monitoring the situation closely for further erosion and potential damage.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.