Jhapa, June 1

A suspension bridge over Aduwa khola at Haldibari Rural Municipality collapsed within a month after its construction in Jhapa.

According to Omkareswor Bridge Users’ Committee, the bridge collapsed due to faulty design. The bridge was constructed with financial support from Trail Bridge Support Unit under Helvetas, Swiss International Assistance Organisation.

The construction had started five months ago and the bridge was completed within four months. But, due to the negligence while designing the bridge, the flood had breached the pillars of the bridge.

Locals accused engineer Lal Jha and technical officer Nikita Sunuwar of Trail Bridge Support Unit of being negligent while designing the bridge. Locals complained that they did not design the bridge by following the criteria.