New bridge connects communities separated by Lalbakaiya river
Summary
The Tikuliya bridge across the Lalbakaiya river in Rautahat has finally opened to vehicles after twelve years, easing travel for residents of Gaur, Ishnath, and nearby settlements. The stalled project faced repeated delays, contractor troubles, and budget constraints, and the bridge is expected to improve access to farms, hospitals, and the district headquarters.
Key Points
- Vehicles have started using the Tikuliya bridge across the Lalbakaiya river in Rautahat after twelve years of delay.
- The bridge will make travel easier for residents of Gaur, Ishnath, Banjaraha, Auraiya, and Mathiya, who previously relied on risky boat crossings.
- Construction was delayed by contractor negligence, contract termination, re-tendering, and budget shortages before work resumed under a new contractor.
- A past boat capsize at Tikuliyaghat in 2017 killed five people, underscoring the danger of the old river crossing.
