U.S. Ambassador Peter W. Bodde today officially provided four ACROW bridges, worth $6.7 million, to the Nepal Army for use during natural disasters.  ACROW bridges are built from ready-to-assemble components that can be changed to meet a wide range of uses in Nepal.  The bridges will be important for keeping open the line of vital supplies during a disaster. 

 The bridges can be used as temporary detours or permanent moveable bridges.  The bridge design allows it to be changed in length and width with minimal equipment.  The bridges can also be transported by truck.

According to a press release issued by,  Public Affairs Section Embassy of the United States, the bridges arrived in Thankot on April 8, in Narayanghat on May 4, in Jitpur on May 16, and Gajuri 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, and will serve as trainers for other Nepal Army units.

  Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ambassador Bodde said: “The United States 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.  The ability of the government to respond internally to disasters will help to save countless lives in the initial hours and days before an adequate international relief effort can be mounted.”