Despite extending the deadline 11 times over the past six years, the construction of infrastructure for the flower and fruit market at Chobhar, Kathmandu is yet to complete, with the latest deadline ending in less than 10 days.
The Rs 350 million contract for the construction of two multi-story buildings was signed eight years ago, with an initial deadline of two years.
Earlier this year on March 26, the deadline was extended for the 11th time until September 16.
While the five-story building will have a capacity to operate 70 stalls, there will be 30 stalls in another two-story building.
Around 13% work of the project spread over 13 ropani (or 0.66 hectare) remains unfinished.
Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari along with the contractor and project consultant on Friday (September 6) inspected the site.
Minister Adhikari directed the contractor to complete the project within the deadline. Else, the government would follow the legal proceedings, Adhikari said.
The ministry was ready to facilitate the timely completion of the project, he added.
Rabi Singh, president of the Federation of Contractors’ Association of Nepal (FCAN) said that the work was delayed due to incessant seepage into the south-west corner of site.
“Additional budget is required for its management,” said Singh, claiming that the undertaking was at its final stage.
According to contractors the cost of the project has exceeded Rs 400 million.
While lawmaker Rajendra KC stressed the need to finish the project soon, Khirman Singh Basnet, Ward Chair of Kirtipur Municipality-6, urged the minister to address the compensation-related demands of the landowners.
(With inputs from RSS)
