Kathmandu, June 29

In consideration of slow progress of post-earthquake reconstruction, National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) — the coordinating agency for the reconstruction works — has proposed the Cabinet to bring all central level project implementation units (CLPIUs) under its ambit.

CLPIUs are dedicated units formed under various ministries, like Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development, Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Education, among others, to look into reconstruction works in their particular areas like reconstruction of roads, schools, and drinking water facilities.

“Though CLPIUs were formed to work in close coordination with NRA, the concerned ministries have not given a free rein to them, which is causing delay in reconstruction activities,” said NRA CEO Govinda Raj Pokharel. “Until and unless we release the CLPIUs from the clutches of the ministries, we cannot expect accelerated post-earthquake reconstruction.”

The government has envisioned treating reconstruction projects differently than regular development projects to complete the reconstruction works by May 2021. However, with the CLPIUs formed under various ministries, it might be tough to meet the target within the stipulated timeframe.

Although more than two years have gone by since the devastating earthquake struck, reconstruction works are not moving ahead encouragingly.

A large chunk of the budget allocated for the reconstruction of schools, government buildings, earthquake ravaged roads and other public facilities is likely to remain unutilised. This is because only Rs 38.79 billion, out of the total allocation of Rs 110.89 billion, has been spent in 11-and-a-half months of this fiscal.