Kathmandu: The US today gifted four Acrow bridges, worth USD 6.7 million, to the Nepal Army for use during natural disasters.
Acrow bridges are built from ready-to-assemble components whose length can be changed accordingly to meet a wide range of uses, a statement released by the US Embassy said.
The bridges will be important for keeping open the line of vital supplies during a disaster.
"The bridge can be used as temporary detours or permanent movable bridges. The bridge design allows it to be changed in length and width with minimal equipment and it can also be transported by truck," the statement said.
The last consignment of the bridges arrived in Nepal on June 30.
Five Nepal Army personnel attended a week-long training course for the assembly and maintenance of the bridges at the Acrow facilities in New Jersey, USA. They will impart training to other Nepal Army personnel also.
"The US stands ready to assist the Government of Nepal in its disaster risk reduction and preparedness activities by helping develop disaster response capabilities in various agencies," US Ambassador to Nepal Peter W Bodde said during the handing over ceremony.
