World Bank approves $150m for Nepal’s bridges improvement programme

KATHMANDU: The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors on Friday approved a financing package of $150 million for Nepal’s Third Bridges Improvement and Maintenance Programme (BIMP-III). The initiative aims to enhance the resilience of bridges within the Strategic Road Network, ensuring safer and uninterrupted connectivity across the nation’s diverse and challenging landscapes.

Nepal's bridge system serves as a crucial lifeline, linking remote and urban communities to essential services such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. However, frequent climate-induced disasters, including floods, landslides, and earthquakes, pose significant risks to bridge infrastructure.

The programme, implemented by Nepal’s Department of Roads, will focus on climate-resilient measures, incorporating enhanced structural designs and innovative technologies such as real-time monitoring systems to protect bridges from extreme weather events. It will also prioritise accessibility-focused designs to connect marginalised communities with critical services.

“The resilience of Nepal’s bridge network is fundamental for safe and sustained connectivity,” said David Sislen, Division Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. “This programme emphasises resilient infrastructure development and improving access to markets and services for vulnerable communities, while advancing Nepal’s sustainable growth.”

The initiative will also include capacity-building efforts for the Department of Roads, encouraging the adoption of innovative solutions and strengthening institutional systems for effective infrastructure management.