Itahari, February 1:

The reconstruction work of different segments of East-West Highway breached by the Saptakoshi flood have begun from today.

“The reconstruction of the section bordering Haripur and Shreepur VDCs has started from today,” Department of Roads said.

Four segments of the highway were breached when the rain-swelled river wreaked havoc in Sunsari district on August 18 last year.

Of the four segments, the damaged segments in Laukahi, Jamuwa Chok and Juddhagunj have already been repaired after the water level receded. The reconstruction works was initiated after the Saptakoshi river was channelled back to its original course a few days ago.

“The reconstruction works will complete in ten days if there is no obstruction,” technicians involved in the reconstruction said.

“The resumption of transport on the breached section of the highway will prove to be a great relief to the industries in eastern Nepal,” acting Sunsari CDO Phanindra Pokharel said.

Meanwhile, flood victims obstructed the reconstruction for two hours today.

The victims later withdrew their protest after the local administration assured them of addressing their demands.