BAJRUA, JUNE 22 Construction of a motorable bridge over the Budhiganga River in Bajura has remained stalled for nearly six years, leaving residents of two municipalities without a crucial transport link. The proposed Maure Bridge, which is intended to connect Budhiganga Municipality and Triveni Municipality, remains in limbo after the construction contract was cancelled and the contractor blacklisted. According to the Mahakali Bridge Project Office in Mahendranagar, the bridge was initially estimated to cost Rs 220.6 million. A contract for the construction of a 110-metre, two-span PSC box girder bridge was awarded to Kathmandu-based Bikoi Builders Pvt Ltd for Rs 162.17 million in December 2021. Under the agreement, the project was to be completed by February 22, 2025. However, local officials said construction never began despite the contractor obtaining design approval and receiving an advance payment exceeding Rs 10 million. The project office has since confiscated the advance guarantee amount, cancelled the contract and blacklisted the company for failing to make any progress. The dispute has now reached the Supreme Court, where the contractor has challenged the government's decisions. The pending case has prevented authorities from initiating a fresh tender process, according to Information Officer and Engineer Ravi Shah. Local representatives said the Maure Bridge is a critical infrastructure project as it serves not only as a link between Budhiganga and Triveni municipalities but also as one of the main gateways to the pilgrimage destination of the Badimalika region. The absence of the bridge leaves Triveni Municipality cut off from the road network for nearly four months each year during the monsoon season, causing significant hardship for residents.