Domestic tourist influx increases after suspension bridge construction on Karnali river

Bhajani (Kailali): The influx of domestic tourists has increased after the construction of a suspension bridge over the Karnali River in Daulatpur, connecting Tikapur Municipality of Kailali and Rajapur Municipality of Bardiya.

After the bridge was completed and traffic was resumed a few days ago, the number of domestic tourists visiting to observe the beauty of the Karnali River, surrounding fields, and to beat the heat has risen.

“It is hot, so we go to observe the bridge in the evening to cool off,” said Kiran Chaudhary of Tikapur-5, adding that the number of visitors is higher than expected.

He also said he has been working as a professional photographer, producing photos and audiovisual content of the bridge. “Earlier, we used to do photography work in Tikapur Park and the Bardiya intake area,” said Rajesh Chaudhary of Bardiya. “For the past few days, the number of tourists coming to see the bridge has increased, so we are also earning well and do not have to go elsewhere.”

With the construction of the bridge, not only has tourism activity increased, but the distance between Tikapur in Kailali and Rajapur in Bardiya has also been reduced. The distance of about 24 kilometers has now been shortened to 15 km, and the need to travel by boat has been eliminated permanently.

“In addition to connecting the tourism potential of the two districts, it has also made travel easier for local citizens,” said local resident Prem Prasad Bhandari. He added that the number of domestic tourists is expected to increase in Tikapur Park, located near the bridge, which would help promote tourism and increase local income. He also expressed confidence that tourism promotion will make daily life easier for residents of Tikapur and Rajapur areas.

Thani Construction Service, which was given a deadline until 2084 BS, completed the work within one year. The project, contracted in 2082 BS, was completed and the bridge was brought into operation, said construction company manager Bikram Basnet. “The bridge has been completed and traffic has started,” he said. “Now preparations are underway for handover.”

Preparations to inaugurate the bridge in 2082 BS were delayed due to various reasons. The bridge, constructed at a cost of about Rs 157.395 million and with a length of 482 meters, was completed by the company, Basnet added.

“Not only for ease of movement, but the bridge over the Karnali River also has the potential to become a tourist attraction,” said local resident Sundar Lal Tharu. He added that this could increase commercial activities and improve the income of local residents.

Similarly, two bridges over the Karnali River have now been completed. A concrete bridge at Sankatti, connecting Tikapur Municipality to Geruwa Rural Municipality in Bardiya, has also been completed and brought into operation.