Bhotekoshi Flood Highlights Need for New Bridge Engineering Standards
Summary
The Bhotekoshi flood washed away 37 bridges and exposed major flaws in Nepal’s bridge-building standards, especially the use of pillars in the middle of rivers. Engineers are now calling for climate-resilient, pillar-less long-span bridges and stronger protections for approach roads and riverbanks.
Key Points
- The August 26 Bhotekoshi flood destroyed 37 bridges and triggered a debate over Nepal’s bridge construction practices.
- Experts say bridges with pillars in the middle of rivers are vulnerable to flood debris and should be replaced with pillar-less long-span designs.
- The Department of Roads says most damaged bridges were prestressed concrete spans of about 50 meters and is planning new climate-resilient standards.
- Proposed changes include higher freeboard, debris-resistant design, and integrated safety measures for riverbanks and approach roads.
