Reconstruction of the friendship bridge that links Nepal with China has commenced in Rasuwagadhi.

As per the agreement signed between Nepal and China on June 21 this year, the Chinese authorities have started work on the bridge that will replace the earthquake-damaged bridge in Rasuwagadhi border.

The earthquake that struck Nepal on April 25, 2015 severely damaged the existing bridge in Rasuwagadhi along the only Nepal-China road in operation. A landslide triggered by the earthquake on Nepal side damaged the bridge. Vehicles use the Bailey bridge, or a portable prefabricated truss bridge, installed over the ravaged old bridge.

The new bridge is being constructed just five metres north-east from the damaged bridge.Chief District Officer Krishna Paudel said the construction work of the bridge started on Chinese side a few days ago.The construction of the bridge that is an important link to China would complete by May 2019, officials said. (PR)