How is India Supporting Flood-Ravaged Nepal with Bailey Bridges?
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Synopsis
In a significant gesture of support, India has handed over modular bridges to Nepal, enhancing connectivity in flood-affected areas. This initiative not only aids in disaster recovery but also strengthens the enduring partnership between the two nations, showcasing India's commitment to Nepal's infrastructure development.
Key Takeaways
- India is providing 10 Bailey bridges to Nepal as part of a grant assistance initiative.
- The initiative aims to restore connectivity in flood-affected areas.
- The first bridge was handed over in a ceremony held in Hetauda.
- India's support underscores the enduring friendship between the two nations.
- Timely assistance is crucial for Nepal's post-disaster recovery efforts.
Kathmandu, Nov 20 (NationPress) Nepal is set to receive 10 Bailey bridges (steel bridges) from India this year, with the first one officially handed over today, as announced by the country's Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport.
Nepal to receive 10 Bailey bridges from India
These bridges aim to facilitate the effective functioning of Nepal's road networks, which have suffered significant damage due to floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, as per a statement released by the Secretariat of Physical Infrastructure Minister Kul Man Ghising on Thursday. India had also supplied 10 Bailey bridges to Nepal in the previous year.
The provision of these bridges is part of a grant assistance initiative from the Indian government, made at the request of the Government of Nepal, according to the statement.
During a ceremony in Hetauda, India’s Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, presented a complete set of a 70-metre modular bridge along with specialized launching tools to Nepal's Minister of Physical Infrastructure and Transport.
The ministry confirmed that the remaining nine bridges are expected to arrive in Nepal within a week.
The Bailey bridge provided by India spans 70 metres, featuring a single-lane width of 4.25 metres and a load-bearing capacity of 38 metric tonnes.
"The Government of India is dedicated to delivering a total of 10 such 70-metre and larger span bridges requested by the Government of Nepal following the devastating rains in October 2025, which impacted eastern Nepal. These 10 Bailey bridges, valued at over NPR 73 crore, are being provided as a grant by India," stated a release from the Embassy of India in Nepal.
"The modular bridge handed over today will be dispatched for immediate installation in Ramechhap, where road connectivity has been disrupted due to heavy rains in October 2025. Last year, following the floods and landslides in September 2024, the Government of India supplied 10 prefabricated steel bridges valued at NPR 41 crore, with four already installed," it added.
During the ceremony, the Indian Ambassador remarked that the provision of the modular bridges and the launching equipment is a strong reflection of the lasting friendship that characterizes the India-Nepal relationship, reaffirming the Government of India's commitment to supporting Nepal's infrastructure development and post-disaster recovery efforts.
He emphasized that the Government of India remains committed to assisting the people and Government of Nepal in their reconstruction and disaster mitigation endeavors.
At the handover event, Minister Ghising highlighted that India's support is crucial for the rapid restoration of infrastructure damaged by natural disasters and for improving transportation networks.
Minister Ghising also noted that India has been a dependable neighbor to Nepal in sectors like roads, energy, education, health, and capacity building, and that assistance during crises has further solidified their bilateral partnership. He expressed gratitude for India's ongoing support to Nepal.
Ambassador Srivastava affirmed that India is always prepared to help Nepal in challenging times, noting that the Bailey bridges provided this year are slightly longer than those delivered last year, facilitating easier installation in severely damaged areas.
"A technical team will soon arrive to install the bridges at the designated sites," he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of India's assistance to Nepal in the aftermath of natural disasters. The timely provision of Bailey bridges not only facilitates immediate recovery efforts but also reinforces the longstanding relationship between the two neighboring countries. Such support is essential for rebuilding infrastructure and improving the lives of citizens affected by crises.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bailey bridges?
Bailey bridges are portable, pre-fabricated steel bridges that can be quickly assembled and are often used in emergency situations to restore connectivity.
Why is India providing bridges to Nepal?
India is providing these bridges to assist Nepal in restoring its road networks that were damaged by heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides.
How many bridges is Nepal receiving?
Nepal is receiving a total of 10 Bailey bridges from India this year.
What is the capacity of the Bailey bridge?
The Bailey bridge provided by India has a load-bearing capacity of 38 metric tonnes.
When will the remaining bridges arrive?
The remaining nine bridges are expected to arrive in Nepal within a week.
