Despite absence of security measures, Triveni suspension bridge still blocked
The Lava-Kush suspension bridge, completed in 2022, has been closed for public use due to incomplete security arrangements, despite its official inauguration in July 2022. The ward chairperson of Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality-6, Narendra Shah, stated that the bridge will be operational as soon as security officers are sent by Chitwan National Park, and that the structures required for their stay have now been constructed. Construction of a 1,300-meter footpath connecting Balmiki Ashram to the bridge is in its final stage, with completion expected soon. Balmiki Ashram, Nepal’s religious site, is not accessible from Chitwan or Nawalpur, necessitating travel via India via Balmikinagar and Balmiki Tiger Reserve, causing additional travel time and hassles.
Shah hopes the 535-metre suspension bridge, completed in Rs. 60 million, will open soon, eliminating the need to travel to Balmiki Ashram via India, despite its long delay. A holy location with significant mythical and historical significance is Balmiki Ashram. It is thought to have been the location of Sita’s prolonged stay, her entry into the ground, the birth of Lava and Kush, and the composition of the Ramayana. Ghanshyam Giri, the chairperson of the Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality, stated that the municipality is working to have the bridge operational as soon as possible because it connects Triveni Dham and Balmiki Ashram.
