New Suspension Bridge Constructed to Enhance Annapurna-Dhawalagiri Trekking Route, Benefiting Locals and Tourists

A new suspension bridge has been constructed over the Ghoptekhola rivulet in Dandakateri, enhancing the Annapurna-Dhawalagiri community eco-trekking route, which spans the Annapurna region of Myagdi and the Jaljala area of Parbat district. This infrastructure development has brought significant benefits to both locals and tourists.

The 50-meter-long bridge, located in Jaljala Rural Municipality-5, Ghoptekhola, was completed with the financial and technical assistance of the Agriculture Aid Association, British Gorkha Nepal. Jit Bahadur Pun, chairperson of the users' committee, confirmed the project's total cost was Rs 4,750,496. He also noted that local residents contributed 85 days of in-kind labor, valued at Rs 115,200, towards the construction.

Narayan Pun, a local resident, highlighted that the bridge has been particularly beneficial for the communities of Banskharka, Mallaj, Dandaketari, Bandahe, and Nagi in Myagdi. The bridge serves as a vital link on the trekking route to Mohredanda and Punhill Ghodepani via Banskharka Dandaketari, significantly reducing travel time and eliminating the need for locals to navigate the previously winding path.