A four-lane road construction project in Khajura of Banke is yet to be completed despite the extension of deadline thrice.
The 1,800-meter road construction project based in Khajura Bazar had begun five years ago. As per the initial deadline, the project developer Gajurmukhi Construction Company, Ilam had to complete it in three years or by March-April, 2021. Progress so far fails to meet the expectation, despite the extension of deadline three times, according to Road Division Office, Nepalgunj.
Division Chief engineer Neeraj Shakya said in initial phase of the project implementation, issues in site clearance and COVID-19 pandemic causes obstructions in achieving the results, but lately, the negligence on the part of construction company has been noticed. During the deadline extension last time, the company was imposed a fine on a daily basis for the delay, but the project continues to be marred by sluggishness. "Therefore, the Office is now proceeding towards repealing the contract," Shakya said.
Advance amount deposited in the company's bank account last time has been already reclaimed.
The company had been awarded the contract for completing two projects one in Khajura Bazar and another of 2,200 meters in Gulariya of Bardiya at the cost of Rs 214.9 million. Earlier, Khajura rural municipality chair Dambar BK advised the Division Office to end the contract for the road construction. ---
Source: National News Agency