September 16: A preliminary study conducted by the Department of Roads shows that more than Rs 3 billion is required to repair the roads and bridges damaged by floods and landslides across the country.

The estimated amount is required for repairing the roads and bridges in 226 various locations across the country where damages were caused by the monsoon that started last July.

The Department informed that out of the total required amount, Rs 1.5 billion is required for the reconstruction and maintenance of damaged structures along the Araniko Highway.

Floods and landslides cause loss of life and property every year, and the country has to invest billions of rupees in rebuilding roads and bridges. The calamities caused by monsoon has created an additional liability of more than Rs 3 billion this year for the state, informed the department.

Out of 226 places across the country, the Araniko Highway, Sanphe-Martadi road, and North-South Corridor of the Beni-Jomsom road section have been severely damaged, informed Shivahari Sapkota, spokesperson of the department.

Although no section of the Araniko Highway is currently blocked, landslides and flooded river have damaged bridges and roads which are being operated partially. This has affected the traffic in 15 various places.