Daijiworld Media Release - Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Sep 13: India has sent the first consignment of components for a 70-metre Bailey bridge to Nepal to help restore connectivity in the flood-affected Betrawati area.
The consignment was handed over to Nepal's Road Division in Hetauda on Saturday, Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said in a post on X. He added that additional consignments of bridge components would arrive in the coming days.
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said the bridge would help restore connectivity in the Betrawati area, which was severely affected by recent flash floods.
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A Bailey bridge is a portable, prefabricated modular steel truss bridge that can be assembled quickly without heavy machinery or specialised tools.
The latest assistance is part of India's ongoing humanitarian support to Nepal following the devastating flash floods that struck the country's northern and central regions on August 26.
The floods have killed nearly 1,400 people and left more than 5,000 missing, according to the latest figures cited by Indian authorities.
According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi has so far sent more than 130 tonnes of relief material and deployed 54 expert personnel to assist Nepal with rescue, relief and forensic operations.
India has also provided specialised tunnel and mud-rescue equipment, DNA kits and forensic equipment, besides essential supplies including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines.
The Indian Air Force has operated at least eight special flights to transport relief supplies to Nepal.
An Indian tunnel rescue team has been working alongside the Nepal Army in search operations, while an Indian forensic team has been assisting Nepali authorities in identifying the mortal remains of victims.
India has reiterated its commitment to supporting Nepal's rescue, relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of the devastating floods.