Delays in Chinese-Backed Projects; Lamichhane Urges Action in Meeting with Chinese Envoy

Several crucial infrastructure projects in Nepal, backed by Chinese corporations, have been marred by extensive delays, raising concerns about the competency of the involved companies. Prominent Chinese entities such as CAMC Engineering, Sino Hydro Corporation, Poly Changda, China Overseas, and China State Construction Engineering find themselves at the center of this controversy. The repercussions of these delays extend to Nepal’s economic aspirations, employment generation promises, and the envisioned industrial revolution.

One major project affected is the Damak Industrial Park, a venture promised to boost the nation’s economic standing, provide employment for a significant workforce, and spearhead industrial transformation. Despite grand promises during its initiation, the park’s construction has been put on hold, leaving its potential unfulfilled.

Moreover, the Chinese-backed Narayangadh-Butwal road section expansion, Kalanki-Maharajganj ring road extension, Timure dry port, and Syafrubesi-Rasuwagadhi road building projects face similar delays, causing frustration among stakeholders. Even the ambitious Kathmandu-Tarai Motorway tunnel project, spearheaded by Chinese firms, has been bogged down by prolonged delays, hampering the anticipated progress.

The Nepal-China railway, a project that has long been under consideration, continues to linger in the planning stages despite agreements reached during high-profile visits by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Former Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The lack of tangible progress raises questions about the actualization of this significant infrastructure endeavor.

Amidst this backdrop of delays and uncertainty, a crucial meeting took place between Rabi Lamichhane, Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song. Held at the RSP’s office in Banasthali, the meeting included other influential figures like Shishir Khanal, Member of the House of Representatives and Head of the Party’s International Relations Department, and lawmaker Nisha Dangi, who also heads the RSP’s Infrastructure Development Department.

During the meeting, discussions centered on drawing the government’s attention to the protracted upgrading of the Narayangadh-Butwal road section under the East-West Highway. The leaders highlighted the challenges faced by citizens during their journeys due to these delays and delved into the root causes behind the road construction setbacks. Proposals were put forth to strategize and prevent further impediments, with a clear delineation of the roles needed for swift project completion.

In response, Ambassador Chen Song pledged to initiate necessary measures to expedite the projects, underscoring a commitment to resolving the issues at hand.