NAWALPASARI, July 5: In a groundbreaking move for wildlife conservation, the Narayanghat-Butwal road extension project has introduced an "overhead canopy bridge" in its eastern section, marking the first of its kind in Nepal.
This innovative structure, located at Pitouji in the Gaindakot forest of Nawalparasi (east of Bardaghat (Susta), aims to provide a safe passage for monkeys and other tree-dwelling creatures, ensuring they can cross the road without harm. Shiv Khanal, the project’s information officer and engineer, explained that the Canopy Bridge is part of the Biodiversity Conservation and Promotion Programme, designed to maintain the natural movement of wildlife even as the road expands through their habitat.
"This is the first canopy bridge specifically built for monkeys as part of a road project in Nepal," he said. "Our goal is to lessen the impact on wildlife habitats and their movement while we work on road expansion. Depending on how well this bridge is used and its effectiveness, we plan to construct similar structures in other suitable areas."
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According to Khanal, the bridge was created to help monkeys, langurs (Semnopithecus), and other wild animals avoid crossing the road, thereby reducing the chances of accidents involving vehicles. It’s anticipated that this initiative will not only enhance the safety of drivers and passengers but also support the natural behaviors of wildlife.
The Narayanghat-Butwal road extension project, stretching 113 km and backed by a concessional loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), stands as one of Nepal's most significant infrastructure endeavors. The construction is being carried out in two phases: the eastern and western sections. As of June 2026, the eastern section has seen the completion of blacktopping and concrete slope work, pushing the overall physical progress to an impressive 92.38 percent, according to the project office.
In addition to the road itself, the project is also focusing on wildlife-friendly structures, drainage systems, promoting greenery, enhancing road safety, and implementing various conservation measures to reduce environmental impact. Engineer Khanal highlighted that the Canopy Bridge, designed with a strong emphasis on biodiversity conservation alongside road development, is set to pave the way for a new standard in eco-friendly infrastructure practices for future road projects in Nepal.
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