SANKHUWASABHA: A bailey bridge over the Arun River connecting Ward Nos. 5 and 2 of Makalu Rural Municipality collapsed on Saturday morning, disrupting transportation along the route.
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Kumar Prasad Mainali at the District Police Office, Sankhuwasabha, the bridge gave way at around 9:00 am while a truck loaded with cement was crossing it. The truck (Province-03-001 Ka 2920) fell into the river following the collapse.
The driver, Arjun Shrestha, 40, of Bahrabise Municipality-9 in Sindhupalchowk, sustained Fserious injuries in the incident, DSP Mainali said. The vehicle was reportedly transporting construction materials for the under-construction Kasuwa Hydro Power Company.
The collapse has completely obstructed the Num-Seduwa road section, bringing vehicular movement to a halt. The road is frequently used by trekkers and mountaineers traveling to Makalu Base Camp.
Authorities said necessary coordination is underway to repair the damaged bridge and make alternative transportation arrangements. The District Police Office has also initiated discussions with Kasuwa Hydro Power regarding maintenance and reconstruction of the bridge.
