Cost of rebuilding flood-hit roads, bridges estimated at Rs 25 billion

KATHMANDU: The government has estimated the cost of repairing roads and bridges damaged by the recent floods and landslides at Rs 25 billion.

Organizing a press meet on Thursday, the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport said that it would take Rs 20-25 billion to restore all affected roads and bridges. “While detailed damage assessment is ongoing, preliminary estimates suggest that Rs 2.5-3 billion would be needed just to restore temporary transportation. The complete reconstruction of all damaged structures is estimated to cost between 20 to 25 billion rupees,” the ministry said in a statement.

According to the ministry, out of 34 highways obstructed due to floods and landslides triggered by continuous rainfall last weekend, 29 have been reopened. Landslides had blocked 805 locations across these 34 highways, of which debris has been cleared from 774 sites, it added.

“Efforts are underway to restore traffic on the remaining 31 locations across five main highways that are still obstructed,” the ministry said.

Araniko Highway, BP Highway, Pushpalal (Mid-Hill) Highway, Kanti Highway and Mechi Highway remain completely closed.

“In addition to clearing landslides, some locations require earthen works, while retaining walls need to be built on some sections. Installation of hume pipes and Bailey bridges are needed to resume transportation on others,” the statement added.

Speaking at the press meet, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal said Rs 2.5-3 billion might be needed for the temporary restoration of bridges and roads alone.