Flood Washes Away Over 35 Bridges Over Trishuli River, One Survives Due to Design
Summary
Floods in the Bhote Koshi River have washed away more than 35 bridges over the Trishuli River, damaging concrete, Bailey and suspension bridges across Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading. A bridge under construction in Galchhi survived because of its long span, deep rock foundation and the wider river channel, prompting calls to review Nepal’s bridge design standards.
Key Points
- More than 35 bridges over the Trishuli River were washed away or damaged by floods in the Bhote Koshi River basin.
- A bridge under construction in Maheshdovan, Galchhi, survived because of its long span, deep rock foundation and the wider river terrain.
- Department of Roads Director General Dr. Bijay Jaisi said the flood was far larger than normal design estimates and highlighted the need to revise bridge standards.
- Officials say Nepal must adopt climate-resilient bridge designs with longer spans, higher elevations and fewer riverbed pillars.
