The locals of Susta village, which is surrounded by the Narayani river and Indian territory, have heaved a sigh of relief with the construction of a suspension bridge across the river.

Previously, the residents of Susta had to risk their lives on a wooden boat to cross the Narayani, a country’s major river, or travel through Indian territory during health emergencies or important tasks. With the new bridge now open, the villagers are elated.

“The construction of a suspension bridge is a huge achievement for the Susta residents. We no longer have to rely on foreign territory to access our own land. This bridge truly connects us to our nation,” said Rabindra Jayaswal of Susta.

Susta village lies in ward 5 of Susta Rural Municipality in Nawalparasi West. Nepal and India have a longstanding border dispute in the Susta area after the Narayani river changed its course. The residents in Susta complained that Indian authorities have encroached on Nepali land and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the border security force of India, harasses them under various pretexts.

However, Susta locals had no choice but to use Indian land for emergencies like hospital visits, since crossing the river by boat was not possible during night time.

For instance, in June last year, Nami Harijan’s wife went into labour at around 9pm. Family members and relatives waited for about two hours expecting safe home delivery, but it did not happen. It was nearly midnight. With no bridge over the Narayani river, and boats unable to operate at night, they decided to take the pregnant woman to Bhaisalotan, India.

“But we had to endure hardships to cross the border at night. Our relatives in India mediated so we were able to take the sick to the hospital,” Nami recalled the incident.

The bridge construction, albeit delayed, has eased the movement of Susta residents. The construction commenced some nine years ago and was supposed to be completed in three years. But the contractor halted work several times, delaying the project by six more years.

The 1,571-metre long bridge—which is claimed to be the country’s longest suspension bridge, opened some three weeks ago, although it has yet to be inaugurated officially.

Many domestic tourists have started visiting the Susta area soon after the bridge came into operation. Besides the villagers, many people visit the bridge daily to take photos and videos.

“The movement of people has significantly increased in the area with the completion of the bridge. People from far and wide have started visiting the area. Some eateries and shops have been opened near the bridge,” said Brijendra Yadav who also owns a food joint in the area. “I have been operating a khaja ghar, and business is good with the increased foot traffic,” he added.

Trishuli Ashraya JV Construction Company constructed the bridge at the cost of Rs 290 million.

There are around 350 households in Susta. The villagers have greatly benefited from the new bridge. “We used to risk a dangerous boat ride to cross the Narayani river to visit Parasi, the district headquarters, or any other places of our own country. It was quite difficult to take the sick people to hospitals. Pregnant women and senior citizens were the hardest hit due to the lack of a bridge,” said Began Khan of Susta.

According to her, many women in Susta preferred or were forced to have home births due to the lack of a bridge. “Though it came late, the main problem of the Susta residents has been resolved. Now, we can go to the district headquarters and other places of our country using our own land,” said Khan.

Susta Rural Municipality is planning to develop the Susta area as a tourist destination. “We are planning to start a home stay service in Susta to attract tourists,” said Tek Narayan Upadhyay, chairman of the local unit.