Seven had gone missing in a decade while crossing the river; locals celebrate long-awaited relief
BAJURA, JULY 24
A suspension bridge has finally been constructed over the Chhindu River on the route to Gumba village in Himali Rural Municipality-3 of Bajura district-an area long plagued by tragic river crossings.
Known locally as a "killer river," Chhindu had claimed the lives of several residents over the years. The successful completion of the bridge has brought immense relief and joy to the locals.
"The bridge was built after relentless efforts. We had almost given up hope after pleading repeatedly with both provincial and federal authorities," said Gobindra Bahadur Malla, chairperson of the rural municipality.
The bridge project was implemented under the Ministry of Urban Development's Local Infrastructure Development Project (Kailali), on the most treacherous part of the route to one of Bajura's most remote villages, Gumba. The project was contracted for Rs 12.89 million, and Jagadamba-Surma Sarobar JV completed the construction at a final cost of Rs 8.47 million, according to sub-engineer Deepak Pant.
The construction agreement was signed on Poush 14, 2078 BS. Due to the area's remote geography and severe transportation difficulties, the project experienced delays. "Transporting materials took more than four days. Despite the challenges, we successfully completed the project," Pant said.
Seven went missing in a decade
Locals expressed happiness over the new bridge, built over a river that had swept away at least seven people in the last ten years. "There's no exact data on the number of sheep, goats, oxen, and buffalo that were lost in the river," said local resident Jagat Bahadur Lama. "We're late, but at least it's here. We've even celebrated with a small village gathering."
Ward member Jagat Lama stated that despite years of appeals to local, provincial, and federal governments, no one paid attention to the repeated calls for a bridge. Until now, villagers had to cross the river at great risk, often using ropes or other dangerous means.
Lalu Kubar Bhote, another local, confirmed that seven people have gone missing in the river since 2015. "People cross the river to reach Gumba, Lampata, and other remote areas in Himali. Some of the missing were Chhandeb Lama, Phuli Gurung, Lulu Gurung, Phulmaya Kunwar, and Gurause Lama. We suspect there may have been others lost too, especially livestock, which cross this way in large numbers."
Four months of isolation every year
Not just people-numerous animals were swept away each year due to the absence of bridges over the Chhindu and Gumba rivers. Villagers had resorted to crossing the rivers using ropes.
Gumba village is home to 26 families and nearby Lampata village has 12 families.
This route is also the main access to Ranisain, a tourist destination. During the four months of monsoon, the area remained virtually cut off.
With the completion of the suspension bridge, locals now enjoy easier, safer access year-round.
