There’s uncertainty in the construction of a motorable bridge over the Mahakali river along the Nepal-India border in Darchula.

Initially, both Nepali and Indian officials had decided to build a bridge at Surkanda in Mahakali Municipality Ward No. 8. As per the plan, the bridge would have connected Mahakali Municipality to Dharchula in Pithoragarh, India. The Indian side had even started a tender process for the bridge’s construction a year ago. But a technical report later showed that Surkanda and Tallo Chharchhum areas are not suitable for the construction of a bridge.

According to the District Administration Office, the Indian side notified them to search for other suitable places for the bridge’s construction.

Tek Singh Kunwar, assistant chief district officer, said that a team of technicians—both from Nepal and India— has inspected two to three places, but it has yet to prepare a report. According to Kunwar, the Indian side has urged his office to construct a bridge in Sakar (Nepal) and Baluwakot in India.

Hansharaj Bhatta, mayor of Mahakali Municipality who was also in the inspection team, said India is searching for an appropriate site in its territory. “There’s a rocky terrain in the Sakara area with no space to construct roads,” said Bhatta. “Ramjhila Bagad of Asikada will be the appropriate location for both countries.”

“For the time being, the bridge will not be constructed because India has unilaterally proposed the Sakar and Baluwakot area for the construction of the bridge,” said Naresh Joshi, a local of Khalanga. “India has been searching for a place that only benefits the country.”