Kathmandu: Recent natural disasters triggered by heavy rains have caused severe damage to Nepal's road infrastructure, with repair costs estimated to reach Rs 25 billion. Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, reported the damage during a meeting of the Infrastructure Development Committee in the House of Representatives today.

The disasters, primarily floods and landslides occurring on September 27-28, affected 34 highways at 805 locations across the country. So far, debris has been cleared from 774 points, allowing traffic to resume on 29 highways, while work is ongoing to restore transport services at 31 locations on five major highways.

Temporary restoration of roads and bridges is estimated to cost around Rs 3 billion, while full reconstruction could require between Rs 20-25 billion. Minister Dahal explained that, in some areas, merely clearing landslide debris is insufficient, and additional measures such as building support walls, installing Hume pipes, and constructing temporary Bailey bridges are needed.

Key Affected Areas:

The Larcha-Kodari section of the Araniko Highway was particularly impacted, with both the Liping and Larcha-based Bailey bridges swept away by floodwaters. Temporary solutions include installing pipes and constructing makeshift bridges.
On the Pushpa Lal (Mid Hill) Highway, an 80-kilometer stretch between Dolalghat-Rakdhum was damaged by landslides, with works ongoing to clear the way and reopen the route from Bardibas to Kathmandu.
The Kanti Highway was also affected, particularly the Ghapeli-Baguwa section and the Bagmati Bridge, where temporary repairs are being planned.
Along the Mechi Highway, efforts are underway to remove landslide debris at Ramitedanda, with plans for a temporary diversion at Hewa Khola.

Plans are in place to install several Bailey bridges, including:

A 17-meter bridge at Liping and a 45-meter bridge at Larcha along the Araniko Highway,
A 50-meter bridge at Sunkoshi Khairenitar along BP Highway,
A 50-meter bridge at Sunkoshi-Khurkot section of the Sagarmatha Highway.
Additionally, the 110-meter bridge at Sunkoshi Phoksingtar and a 15-meter bridge along the Kanti Highway were washed away by floods, with preparations underway for temporary repairs.

The federal government is coordinating with provincial and local levels for effective repair and maintenance of the damaged roads. Minister Dahal also assured that discussions are ongoing with relevant authorities to expedite the restoration of transport services. He further mentioned that a request has been sent to the Home Ministry for immediate rescue and relief efforts for passengers and transport workers stranded due to the disasters.