Crores of investment for river control wasted

After last year's flood, more than 80 million rupees have been spent to restore Melamchi river to its original course and to protect the settlements of Melamchi market area. The local residents had even started dugging out the flooded settlement for shelter, but the area is again at risk.

The flow of the river is changing, the dilapidated suspension bridge is again at high risk of flooding. The Melamchi area, was already at risk due to the constant rain for the past few days, has become more vulnerable now. As the river is changing its course, fear has been inflicted to the residents. 

The houses in the market area are at high risk. Locals are demanding the repair and preservation of dilapidated suspension bridges and a long-term alternative to settlements. Shyam Kumar Shrestha, a local resident, affected by the flood, says that if there is no bridge, the life of the local residents will become difficult.

In process of repairing the river to its old rhythm, till the end of last June, embankment work was going on. But after the over flooding, the built embankment was buried and the river started flowing across. Because of this, crores of investment made for river control has been wasted. The head of Melamchi Municipality, Aitaman Tamang, says that management is still in process to control the damage. He said that he is trying his best to protect bridges, roads and settlements.

Due to the continuous rain, the water level is increasing in the river and the road sections are being blocked. Locals are living in fear, and during the rainy season, there is no choice for them to cross other than the suspension bridge.

After last year's flood, geologists have suggested to not make the coastal area of ​​Melamchi river, residential. However, it is important to get everyone's attention to the fact that the loss of property may occur due to the local residents not leaving behind the place.