Only 4 out of 21 mega projects see satisfactory progress

Ramesh Lamshal
KATHMANDU, Jan 6: To a sheer neglect to the infrastructure development in the country, it was shared that only four out of 21 National Pride Projects (NPP) have seen satisfactory progress. The NPP is regarded as the mega project and said to be given special attention.

The progress of the remaining projects is in snail’s pace. The non-coordination among the government agencies, shortage of construction materials and locally brewed hassles in the fields are some major hurdles to expedite the mega projects.

The four projects have made more than 80 percent progress. The Bheri Babai Diversion Project is the top making 121 percent progress. Similarly, the Upper Tamakoshi Hydro Power made 90 percent progress.

According to the National Planning Commission, there are five projects making 50 to 79 percent progress, while two projects have witnessed zilch progress over the years.

The construction of the Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project has reached 94 percent. The activities are in full swing to complete the project within one year. It has aimed at producing 456 MW electricity, informed Project Spokesperson Dr Ganesh Neupane.

Similarly, Bheri Babai Diversion Project Chief Shiva Bahadur Basnet said the work progress of the project is more than expected. It has implemented Tunnel Boring Machine, first of its kind in Nepal.

The Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track, Second International Airport and West Seti Hydro Project have witnessed no progress at all. Similarly, the Rastrapati Chure Conservation Project is another to record zilch progress.

The construction of Nijgadh International Airport and Gautam Buddha Airport are waiting attention to solve numerous problems.