BIRGUNJ: Construction of automation gates and related structures at the headworks of the under-construction Jamuni Barrage on the Jamuni River in Bara has moved forward.

Although the main headworks structure had been completed earlier, the absence of gates had prevented the irrigation system from becoming fully operational. With the installation of automation gates now underway, hopes have risen for the project’s completion.

Chief of the Narayani Irrigation Management Office, Manoj Prasad Patel, said work on installing automation gates and associated structures at the headworks has begun. “The headworks had been completed long ago, but the canal system could not be fully functional due to the lack of gates,” he said. “Following the tender process, we are now optimistic that the project will be completed.”

The office signed a contract with a construction company on July 5, 2025 (Asar 20, 2082 BS), worth Rs 121.2 million. According to the agreement, construction must be completed by August 5, 2027 (Shrawan 20, 2084 BS).

Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, a representative of the construction company said around 30 percent of the work has been completed so far. “We are committed to finishing the project within the stipulated timeframe,” he said.

Once operational, the Jamuni Irrigation Project is expected to provide irrigation to approximately 9,500 hectares of land in eastern Bara and parts of Rautahat. The system will be capable of distributing up to 750 cusecs of water.