Decades of Delay: Kamala Bridge Remains Unfinished

The Kamala Bridge over the Kamala River, has been under construction for 14 years, costing around 25 crores, but it remains unfinished. Locals say the collapsed pillars and incomplete slabs are clear signs of ongoing corruption and negligence by politicians and contractors.

For decades, residents of Siraha and nearby areas have struggled to cross the river. During the rainy season, people rely on temporary wooden crossings or pay to cross in small boats, making daily travel dangerous and inconvenient.

The bridge project was first contracted in 2068 BS to Pappu Construction, in partnership with Lumbini Builders. Delays, poor construction quality, and political interference caused the project to stall repeatedly. Even when the bridge partially opened, one of its main pillars collapsed, leaving it in limbo.

Former schoolteacher Jamuna Prasad Yadav, a long-time resident, says, “Politicians have promised to finish the bridge for years, but nothing has changed. The incomplete bridge now stands as a symbol of corruption in Madhesh.” Many locals express frustration that government officials, including prime ministers and ministers, have visited the site multiple times without resolving the issue.

Authorities recently attempted to resume construction by lifting collapsed slabs and strengthening the pillars. Contractors say that once these repairs are complete, the bridge could be functional. However, trust among locals remains low after decades of delays and broken promises.

Residents hope that the new efforts will finally make the bridge operational. Until then, crossing the Kamala River continues to be a daily struggle, highlighting the real cost of corruption and inefficiency in public projects.