Kaski, May 3 -- Pokhara, the country's major tourist hub, saw the inauguration of a modern six-lane road stretching from Zero Kilometer to Bindhyabasini Temple in 2017. Hailed as the first of its kind in Gandaki Province, this 'model road' was celebrated as a milestone in regional infrastructure.

However, one critical component was left behind. The bridge over the Phirke stream remains a narrow and outdated two-lane structure. Though plans for a new wider bridge were in place and contracts awarded, it was never built.

Disputes over compensation for the land acquired for the bridge and the contractor's negligence stalled construction for six years. Now, even after the contract was cancelled, it could take at least three more years to com...