Govt Forms Probe Committee After Hewakhola Bridge Collapse

The government has formed a committee to investigate the collapse of an under-construction bridge over the Hewakhola, which connects Phidim-4 and Hilihang-7 along the Mechi Highway (Phidim–Taplejung road section).

Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, created a five-member investigation and study committee through a ministerial decision.

The committee is led by Deputy Director General of the Department of Roads, Lalijan Khanal. Other members include Binod Kumar Mowar (Chief of Federal Road Supervision and Monitoring Office, Damak), Jibendra Mishra (Chief of Road Division Office, Butwal), Shyam Kumar Yadav (Chief of Damak Division), and Amit Kumar Verma (CDE, Department of Roads).

The committee has been tasked with finding out the reason behind the bridge collapse, recommending ways to prevent such incidents in the future, and suggesting temporary transport arrangements at the site. They must submit their report within 7 days after conducting an on-site inspection.

The committee has already started its work from Sunday.

Minister Dahal expressed sorrow over the unexpected incident and extended deep condolences over the loss of workers’ lives. According to his secretariat, he has instructed Secretary Keshav Kumar Sharma and Roads Department Director General Dr. Bijay Jaishi to ensure proper treatment for the injured without any delay or shortage.