Shivaganga Bridge Construction Stalled for Eight Years, Forcing Annual Temporary Crossings

Dhangadhi: Construction of the bridge over the Shivaganga River, which connects Wards 17 and 16 of Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City and lies along the route to the major religious and tourist site, Behadababa Temple, has remained stalled for eight years.

The Road Division Office in Mahendranagar initiated the bridge construction project through a tender process approximately eight years ago. However, the lack of progress over the years has caused difficulties for local residents.

As the bridge has not been completed, Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City has been constructing a temporary road and crossing every year after the monsoon season by installing Hume pipes. The temporary structures are intended to facilitate movement for local residents, pilgrims visiting Behadababa Temple, and tourists.

The Sub-metropolitan City has stated that it has repeatedly sent reminders to the Road Division Office regarding the delay. Although it has urged the office to terminate the contract and initiate a new process if construction cannot proceed, no permanent solution has been reached so far.

This year, work has again begun on constructing a temporary bridge and road using Hume pipes over the Shivaganga River in Dhangadhi-17, along the route connecting Dhangadhi-16 and Behadababa Temple. The delay in constructing the permanent bridge has created a recurring need to build temporary structures every year.

Local residents have urged the concerned authorities to prioritize and expedite construction of the bridge, which has remained stalled for years. They expect that completion of the permanent bridge will ensure smooth, year-round access not only for residents of various wards in Dhangadhi but also for pilgrims and tourists visiting Behadababa Temple.