TWA

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Islamabad, The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Pakistan successfully hosted a Bridges Handover Ceremony on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Islamabad, marking the formal completion of the “ReBridge: Resilient Infrastructure Recovery” project in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The event celebrated the successful restoration and upgrade of key pedestrian suspension bridges in Bahrain and Kalam. These bridges were originally constructed by UNOPS following the devastating 2010 floods to restore vital community connectivity. Over time, however, the structures had deteriorated due to the adjacent Bahrain-Kalam Road construction and insufficient maintenance. In response, UNOPS launched a comprehensive rehabilitation effort in 2021, upgrading the bridges to international standards to reduce future maintenance needs and ensure long-term sustainability. A government department was also identified to take ownership of the bridges, ensuring continued oversight and upkeep.

UNOPS officials and government representatives at the Bridges Handover Ceremony in Islamabad, marking the completion of the ReBridge Project in Swat.

These improved bridges now provide safe and reliable passage for over 49,700 people in the region. During and after the catastrophic 2022 floods, they served as the only safe river crossings, maintaining access and ensuring the safety of residents.

As part of its ongoing support, UNOPS also donated two modular steel pedestrian bridges (each 55 meters in length) to the local administration of Bahrain. These structures are intended to enhance government preparedness and resilience during emergencies.

At the ceremony, UNOPS officially handed over the bridges to the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Opening remarks were delivered by Jennifer Ankrom Khan, who highlighted UNOPS' development work and its expertise in delivering resilient infrastructure solutions. Government dignitaries, including Dr. Amjad Ali Khan, MNA, and Mr. Mian Sharafat Ali, MPA, expressed appreciation for UNOPS’ contributions to the region’s development.

In his closing address, Charles Callanan, Director of the UNOPS South Asia Multi-Country Office, acknowledged the challenges faced during the project and noted, “The ReBridge project reminds us that recovery is not just about returning to where we were. It’s about moving forward — safer, wiser, and stronger.” He reiterated UNOPS’ commitment to high-quality delivery and long-term resilience.

The event brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including representatives from the government, donor agencies, UN bodies, international NGOs, and local partners.

This ceremony not only marked the formal transfer of the infrastructure but also reaffirmed UNOPS’ dedication to supporting disaster recovery and building resilient, empowered communities for the future.

UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations, managing approximately USD $1.8 billion worth of peace and security, humanitarian, and development projects each year. Operating in more than 80 countries, UNOPS specializes in infrastructure, procurement, project management, human resources, and financial management, particularly in complex and challenging environments.