Infrastructure Minister Warns of Strict Action Against Slow Construction Businesses

Kathmandu. Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal has stated that construction entrepreneurs who cause delays in construction work will be brought under strict action. Minister Lamsal said this on Tuesday while responding to questions raised by MPs on the ministry's budget during a National Assembly meeting. Minister Lamsal clarified that the government's priority is to complete the work by putting pressure on the entrepreneurs rather than blacklisting them or canceling their contracts. However, he mentioned that the contracts of entrepreneurs who do not work even after repeated reminders and achieve only two percent progress in three years will be canceled and action will be initiated. Speaking about the Kathmandu-Terai Fast Track, Minister Lamsal informed that many problems, including the zero point, are in the final stage of resolution. According to him, the construction of the Fast Track has been delayed due to technical reasons and changes in 'high flood level' requiring design modifications. He stated that three identified 'non-performing' contracts will be canceled and tenders for two other packages will be called to expedite the project. Responding to MPs' queries about budget shortages in roads like the Palpa's Siddhababa section, Minister Lamsal assured that budget will be managed for essential roads according to the work procedure. Speaking in the House, Minister Lamsal said, 'The government has made a certain standard for the maintenance and construction of roads at the local level. Budget will be implemented by prioritizing roads passed by the executive and used by a large population.' He also informed that budget will be managed for bridges based on need. Minister Lamsal acknowledged that the construction sector has been affected due to weaknesses in the Public Procurement Act, and stated that the process of amending the act is in the final stage. He mentioned that in the new system, the concept of 'time is money' will be embraced, and delays in work will also be included within the definition of corruption. Targeting the delays in the bureaucracy, Minister Lamsal said, 'Now, not only financial transactions, but also employees who do not make timely decisions and hold files will be held accountable.' He claimed that the Procurement Act will concretely address the problems created by low bidding and prevent the misuse of advance payment. He also urged the MPs to pass this act, which is under consideration in the parliament, quickly. Similarly, Minister Lamsal informed the House that the reconstruction of the special building damaged by fire will proceed in a planned manner, and a director has been appointed for it and a work procedure has also been formulated. He also expressed the government's commitment to giving high priority to national pride projects and the East-West Highway.