Pithoragarh: The first motorable bridge connecting Uttarakhand with Nepal is set to be operational from 2025, promising significant benefits for both countries in business and bilateral relations. The Uttarakhand government has funded the entire construction cost of Rs 32 crore for the 110-meter bridge, which began two years ago.
This bridge will link the Charchum area of Pithoragarh, with a 180-meter approach road also being developed at the Nepal border. It will greatly benefit the residents of Pithoragarh and Champawat in Uttarakhand, as well as Darchula and Kanchanpur in Nepal.
Most of the bridges connecting Nepal to Uttarakhand are suspension bridges
This date, most bridges linking Nepal to Uttarakhand have been suspension bridges. However, by 2025, vehicle movement in all formats will commence on the first four-lane border bridge. Additionally, an SSB post is being established near this bridge, along with parking facilities and a building to accommodate soldiers from both countries. Once the bridge opens to the public, security agencies from both nations will be stationed there to closely monitor all visitors.
Two motorable bridges to bring warmth amid Indo-Nepal border dispute
In an effort to enhance relations between India and Nepal amid ongoing border disputes, plans are being made to connect Nepal to the Asian Highway and a motor bridge through Uttarakhand. A two-lane motor bridge over the Kali River in Charchum, Pithoragarh, and a four-lane motor bridge over the Mahakali River near Banbasa, Champawat, are now ready. Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat announced that the bridge over the Kali River, constructed by the PWD would be functional very soon.
Char Dham Pilgrims from Nepal will also be benefitted
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated, “Uttarakhand shares its border with Nepal. People from Nepal visit Uttarakhand for business and religious activities. We hope that with the construction of the bridge, devotees from Nepal will also benefit as they can drive to the Char Dham Yatra in their vehicles.” In response, the Nepal government mentioned, “If our agency builds the bridge or the road up to the highway, it will be beneficial for us.”
