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Implementation Period: 2021 - 2023
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Donor organization: Ассоциация «Pamir’s Bridges», Швейцария
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Geographical location: Иссык-Кульская, Нарынская, Ошская и Джалал-Абадской области
The initiative to build bridges in the mountainous regions of Kyrgyzstan belongs to a foreigner. Bernard Repond, a citizen of Switzerland, visited our country as a tourist in September 1999. A three-week journey through the mountains of Issyk-Kul not only revealed to him the unique nature and breathtaking landscapes but also encountered impassable roads and destroyed bridges along the way. Bernard noticed that local shepherds often grazed livestock in specific areas of the pasture. In response to the question, "Why not graze animals throughout the pasture?" he heard that there was no bridge to move the livestock to the other side. A simple French language teacher turned out to be a passionate enthusiast: upon returning home, Bernard Repond founded the association "Pamir's Bridges" and began seeking funds for the restoration and construction of mountain bridges in Kyrgyzstan. To raise funds, the association organized "Pamir Evenings" with film screenings and fairs of Kyrgyzstani artisanal products. The proceeds were intended for rural districts in need of bridges.
Project Background
With the continuous support of the association "Pamir's Bridges" (Switzerland), 101 bridges were constructed and repaired from 2022 to 2023.
Project Objectives & Goals
The jubilee bridge, No. 100, appeared in the village of Barskoon in the fall of 2023. The opening and commissioning of the facility became a landmark event, attended by the Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kyrgyz Republic Olivier Bangerter, the president of the association "Pamir's Bridges" Bernard Repond, local authorities, and residents.
Project Result
From 2021 to 2023, with the financial and technical assistance of two organizations, 15 bridges were built in settlements and forestry enterprises in the Issyk-Kul, Naryn, Osh, and Jalal-Abad regions. The contribution of local communities was expressed through labor resources. Thanks to the new bridges, living and working conditions were improved in 11 aiyl districts, shepherds and domestic animals gained access to remote pastures, and safe routes were established for motorists and tourists.
