Enhanced Connectivity Between Far West Nepal and India: Key Agreements Reached

Dhangadhi: A significant step towards improving direct connectivity between Far West Nepal and India has been achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). As part of this agreement, India will construct a dry port at Dodhara-Chandni within the next three years. Additionally, during Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's visit to India, an agreement was reached to construct a concrete bridge over the Mahakali River, connecting Dadeldhura and Jhulaghat in Baitadi.

The Mahakali Treaty, which governs water sharing from the Mahakali River for irrigation purposes, has faced challenges as the expected water supply has not been received even after several years. Shambhu Pandit, the senior divisional engineer of the third phase of the Mahakali irrigation project, stated that despite the office's efforts to secure water for the main canal of the project through higher authorities, success has been elusive.

During the visit, Prime Minister Dahal also inspected the site earmarked for the dry port. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the dry port has received cabinet approval, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently being prepared in India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to constructing a bridge at Top and Jhulaghat has raised hopes for improved ease of movement in Baitadi, Dadeldhura, and other districts.

PM Modi expressed his determination to enhance direct connectivity between Far West Nepal and India. As part of efforts to facilitate transportation between Nepal and India, a motorable bridge construction project has been underway in Mahakali Municipality-8, Asigada, Darchula since October of the previous year. The inauguration of the bridge construction was attended by then-Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supply Dilendra Prasad Badu, and Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, India, Pushkar Singh Dhami.

The local residents, who previously had to undertake a perilous journey across an old, dilapidated suspension bridge in Jhulaghat, rejoice at the prospect of a motorable bridge. It is expected that the construction of this bridge at the border will enhance economic activities and expand trade relations between the two countries. The Pancheswar multi-purpose project, envisioned in the Mahakali Treaty, holds great significance for the aspirations of both Nepal and India.

Officials from both governments have agreed to accelerate bilateral discussions to finalize the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Pancheswar multi-purpose project within three months. The Pancheswar Development Authority will submit the final DPR to both governments. Both countries have reached an agreement, involving relevant agencies, to secure the necessary financing for the Pancheswar multi-purpose project.

Upon approval of the DPR by both governments, the implementation framework is expected to be finalized within one year. Furthermore, both parties have welcomed the construction of the Tanakpur Link Canal and have agreed to gradually release water from the Tanakpur Barrage to Nepal's Irrigation Command Area, subject to the availability of required structures on the Nepalese side. Nepal and India have also agreed that technical teams from both sides will maintain regular communication on this matter.

These significant agreements serve to strengthen the connectivity and collaboration between Far West Nepal and India, fostering regional development and cooperation.