Kathmandu, January 17
Several large development projects have been affected with the government's decision to shut down the illegally run crusher industries.
According to Spokesperson for the Department of Roads Bhimarjun Adhikari, various big projects, including the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project, have been hit hard with the scarcity of construction materials due to the government's decision to shut down crusher industries.
"The Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project is near standstill due to lack of sand. Because of the delay, the cost of the project will rise and the contractor is also planning to claim damages from the government," Adhikari told The Himalayan Times.
According to him, Naubise-Nagdhunga, Muglin-Pokhara and other road projects have also been affected due to the decision.
On January 4, the Ministry of Home Affairs had issued a circular to all 77 district administration offices to shut down illegal crushers industries.
According to President of Federation Contractors' Association of Nepal (FCAN) Rabi Singh, around 80 per cent of construction activities has been affected with shortage of construction materials after the government's decision.
"The government decision to shut down illegal crusher industries has exacerbated the woes of construction entrepreneurs who were already grappling due to the liquidity crunch and other factors such as soaring fuel prices," Singh said.
While commending the goal behind the move, he opined that the government should have held discussions with related stakeholders instead of making a unilateral decision.
"The government should review the decision and scientifically make regulations regarding crusher industries."
A version of this article appears in the print on January 18, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.
