DPR readied for 1,500m link to Nepal

An Asian Development Bank-funded bridge over Mechi River at Indo-Nepal border will progress further following an approval by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Estimated to cost Rs.158.65 crore, the bridge would be funded by the Government of India through ADB loan.

Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this project has been prepared and alignment of bridge has been finalized in consultation with Government of Nepal.

The new bridge is part of up-gradation of the Kakarvitta (Nepal) to Panitanki Bypass (India) on National Highway 327B covering a length of 1,500 meters including a 6-lane approach road of 825 meters.

National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) under Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has been designated as the implementing agency for this project.

Mechi Bridge is the ending point of Asian Highway 2 in India and provides critical connectivity to Nepal.

The construction of the bridge will improve regional connectivity and has potential to strengthen cross border trade between both the countries and cementing ties by strengthening industrial, social and cultural exchanges.

The cabinet approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be signed between India and Nepal for laying down implementation arrangement on Cost sharing, Schedules and Safeguard issues for starting construction of the bridge on 23 August 2017. fii-news.com