Third Bridges Improvement and Maintenance Program

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Nepal’s Strategic Roads Network is a vital component of the country’s transportation infrastructure, connecting major cities, towns, and rural areas. However, the current state of the network faces numerous challenges, including aging infrastructure, vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, and limited accessibility for certain populations. Historically, efforts to improve the road network have been hampered by a lack of resources, technical expertise, and organizational capacity. This project aims to address these issues by promoting resilient, safe, and inclusive connectivity and building the necessary technical and organizational capabilities within the Department of Roads.With respect to the PforR components:(i) Resilience in infrastructure refers to the ability of bridges to withstand and recover from natural disasters and other adverse events. In Nepal, this is particularly important due to the country’s susceptibility to earthquakes, landslides, and floods. Strategies to enhance resilience include using advanced construction materials and techniques, implementing robust maintenance practices, and incorporating disaster risk reduction measures into the design and planning stages. Examples of resilient infrastructure can be found in countries like Japan, where earthquake-resistant bridges and roads have been successfully implemented. (ii) Safety is a fundamental aspect of transportation infrastructure. Ensuring that bridges are safe for all users involves implementing stringent design and construction standards, regular inspections and maintenance, and incorporating safety features such as guardrails, signage, and lighting. In Nepal, improving road safety is particularly important due to the high incidence of traffic accidents and fatalities. By prioritizing safety in the design and construction of bridges, the project aims to reduce these risks and provide a safer travel experience for all users. (iii) Inclusivity in infrastructure projects means ensuring that all communities have access to safe and reliable connectivity. In Nepal, promoting inclusive connectivity is essential for fostering social and economic development, as it enables all citizens to participate fully in society, and (iv) technical and organizational capabilities of the Department of Roads are critical to the successful implementation and maintenance of the project. Currently, the department faces several challenges, including a lack of technical expertise, outdated equipment, and limited access to advanced technologies. To address these issues, the project will focus on enhancing the department’s ability to design, construct, and maintain resilient, safe, and inclusive infrastructure. The project will support the department in enhancing its organizational capabilities through initiatives supporting the implementation of best practices in project management and administration.With respect to the IPF components:(i) conducting necessary technical audits and DLI verifications through a third party; (ii) procuring temporary, rapidly deployable bridges to restore critical connectivity in the event that permanent bridges are swept away or destroyed during monsoons, earthquakes, or other natural disasters; (iii) updating current bridge construction, maintenance, and inspection practices to account for increased stresses caused by severe climate incidents; (iv) enhancing the professional and institutional capacities of DoR staff, including their technical, social, environmental, and fiduciary skills; (v) supporting the Geo‐Environment and Social Unit (GESU) in its role as a gate reviewer for transport projects; and (vi) upgrading the current BMS to include a climate module that emphasizes resilience as a key criterion for prioritizing bridge inspection and maintenance.