Kathmandu. The Bailey Bridge constructed at Puwa Rivulet connecting Ilam Municipality-9 and 11 has come into operation.

Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Nabin Srivastava inaugurated the project.

The bridge has been constructed with the support of the Indian government. With the operation of the bridge, it has become easier for the residents of Taplejung, Panchthar and Ilam to travel to Jhapa. The bridge is 48.8 meters long, said Pawan Bhattarai, chief of the Road Division Office, Ilam. Sagar-Shurambha-Arisa JV has constructed the bridge at a cost of Rs 14.8 million.

With the operation of this bridge, the distance between the hills and the Terai has also been shortened. Secretary at the Ministry, Keshav Kumar Sharma, said that the construction of the bridge is expected to facilitate the operation of transport and also help improve the economic status of the locals by marketing the local agricultural produce.

Federal lawmaker Mahesh Basnet, Secretary at the Ministry Keshab Kumar Sharma, Director General of the Department of Roads, Dr Dipu Moni were present on the occasion. Chief of Bridge Division Lalijan Khanal, Chief of Federal Road Supervision and Monitoring Office Damak Binod Kumar Mauwar, Mayor of Ilam Municipality Kedar Thapa and other public representatives were present on the occasion.

Minister Dahal and Ambassador Srivastava are also scheduled to inaugurate the modular bridge installed at Hewa Khola in Panchthar today.