TAPLEJUNG: Construction of a motorable bridge over Tamor River that links more than half dozen villages of Taplejung district have been expedited.

Approximately, 70 per cent of the construction has been completed so far, and the remaining work will be completed in one month, said engineer for the contractor company, Sushil Sah.

The bridge construction — started eight years ago — was left unattended after a flood swept away the bridge two years ago. As many as 25 workers have been engaged in the construction since January 18.

Three contractors — Kankai, Mainachuli and Yakthunghang — have been engaged to undertake the construction of the bridge since 2009 to complete the project within two and a half years with the estimated project cost of Rs 100 million.

With no bridges over the river, over half a dozen villages in the locality are cut off from transportation link and are lagging behind development activities. As a result, supply of goods and other materials are being made at high prices.  Additionally, the dirt tracks opened across the river await upgrading for vehicular movement.