Monthly progress report: Bagmati Bridge

                        MEMORANDUM

To      : Er. Hari Prasad Lamsal, Chief Engineer,
Department of Roads, Babarmahal, Kathmandu
From    : Er. Ashim Pradhan, Project Manager, Bagmati
Bridge Project
Date    : 3 June 2027
Subject : Monthly progress report on the construction of
the Bagmati Bridge near Thapathali (May 2027)

Introduction

The project is to construct a 90 m, double-lane RCC bridge across the Bagmati river near Thapathali, to reduce traffic on the existing bridge. The contract period is 15 months from 1 March 2027. This report covers the work done in the third month (May 2027).

Work completed

1. Piers and abutments: the pile foundation of the south abutment and Pier 1 was finished (24 piles); piles for Pier 2 are 50 percent done.
2. Pile cap: casting of the south abutment pile cap was completed.
3. Girders: casting yard established; 6 of 24 precast girders were cast.
4. Materials: cement, rods and aggregates were tested and found satisfactory.
5. Safety and environment: river water was diverted using a temporary channel; the working area was fenced.
6. Traffic: a diversion plan was made with the Traffic Police.
7. Expenditure: Rs. 1.8 crore this month, Rs. 4.1 crore so far.

Problems faced

• Pre-monsoon rain raised the river level and slowed the pile work for 6 days.
• Pollution and waste in the river made working conditions difficult.
• The 11 kV line near the north abutment has to be shifted by the electricity authority.

Work planned for the next period

1. Complete the piles of Pier 2 and the north abutment.
2. Cast 8 more girders.
3. Request the Nepal Electricity Authority to shift the line.
4. Prepare a monsoon safety plan.

Conclusion

The overall progress is 20 percent against the plan of 22 percent. The delays can be made up in the dry season, but the monsoon safety plan must be strictly followed.