Goidakhola bridge in Baitadi nears completion after nine years of delay

Baitadi: The construction of the bridge at Goidakhola, which connects the Patan–Pancheshwor road section, has reached its final stage after nine years. The bridge lies in the initial section of the road linking three local levels—Pancheshwor, Shivnath and Melauli—in the Swarad area of Baitadi.

A contract agreement for the construction of the bridge was signed in 2073 BS. The absence of a bridge over the river had long created difficulties for transportation, particularly during the rainy season. Locals say that movement is relatively easy in winter when the river’s water level is low, but vehicular traffic becomes difficult when the water level rises during the monsoon.

Kathmandu-based Rafina Construction won the contract for the bridge project on 2073 Paush 12. Although the agreement required the work to be completed by 2074 Paush 11, construction was delayed due to various reasons.

According to Engineer Kapil Prasad Pant, Information Officer of the Road Division Office, Baitadi, the two-lane bridge, which is 15 meters long, is being constructed at a cost of Rs 27 million 34 thousand 131. He said that work is currently underway with the aim of completing the bridge by Ashar.

Local construction entrepreneur Madan Mohan Bista, who is responsible for the project on behalf of the construction company, said that the construction was delayed due to issues related to land compensation. He stated that work has now accelerated after the issue was resolved.

More than 100 small and large vehicles travel on this road section daily. Jeep driver Paras Mangola said that both passengers and drivers face problems when the river cannot be crossed.

Currently, the Patan–Pancheshwor road falls under the jurisdiction of the Infrastructure Development Office of the Sudurpaschim Province Government. However, since the bridge construction had already begun earlier, it remains under the responsibility of the Road Division Office, Baitadi, said Acting Division Chief Laxman Dutta Joshi.

According to him, the project also includes blacktopping and installation of railings along the sides of the bridge. He said that the goal is to complete all remaining work within the current fiscal year and make transportation easier. The office stated that the deadline has been extended repeatedly and that the bridge construction will finally be completed by the end of the current fiscal year.