NEPALI ECONOMICS
By Prajwal Shrestha
Is the “Yes minister system” a new form of colonization of the underdeveloped countries; is this a system to keep poor countries permanently poor, time and again, this question strikes on me!
The Arun 3 hydropower project was at the final stage of starting construction. The project was considered the largest ever project in South Asia to be generated at a low price. The government had already spent billions of rupees in preparatory works for the construction. The World Bank, Japan and Germany were ready to invest in the project. Unfortunately, at the final stage of kicking off the project construction works, it was cancelled following the UML government’s letter to the World Bank demanding suspension of the project. After three decades, an Indian company is constructing the project providing very little benefit to Nepal.
It took 30 years to complete the Melamchi Drinking Water Project which was expected to be completed in five years. Along with the delay in construction, the project cost was inclined by many folds.
Finally, the government decided to construct the Kathmandu-Nijgadh express road, a long-awaited project. This scribe was informed about this project five decades ago. Better late than never, the Nepal Army has taken the responsibility for the construction of the project. There is a high hope among the people on timely completion of the project as the Army, a trusted force, is involved in the construction of the project.
Meanwhile, the Public Account Committee in the House of Representatives has learnt to have written a letter to the Nepal Army for cancelling the tender for constructing tunnels and high altitude bridges.
This scribe doesn’t claim that there could not be any hanky-panky deal in such a big project, but asking to cancel the contract is surely a wrong decision. If any illegal deal has been made in rewarding the construction company, this is the subject for investigation. Sure, an investigation should be initiated and concerned official should be punished. Unfortunately, the order for cancellation of the construction contract is directly related to a delay in completion of the project and an incline on the construction cost further. Melamchi is an example. Will the PAC take responsibility for the delay of the project and incline the construction cost?
Construction of the infrastructural projects is the pillar for economic prosperity. Unfortunately, in such game-changer projects, some elements appear to create an obstacle. The Nijgadh International Airport Project is an example as there has been seen a strong lobby against construction of the project in the name of adverse ecological impact! Sure, ill-intentioned global and regional powers don’t want to see Nepal becoming economically prosperous!
It won’t be odd if one day the government will hand over the Budhigandaki hydropower project to an Indian company! This is Nepali economics!
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