JHAPA: Traders, businessmen, and locals of Jhapa are voicing concerns over the enigmatic Business Tower, valued at over NRs 2 billion, questioning its purpose and viability.

Despite its completion and impending inauguration, the towering structure looms empty, devoid of any commercial interest.

Not a single floor of the 18-story edifice has been claimed for business endeavors, with no formal inquiries forthcoming.

Situated 6 km west of Damak’s established hub, the tower’s remote location poses logistical and financial challenges for potential occupants.

Even proposals for a shopping mall, gymnasium, hospital, or beauty parlor fail to ignite optimism for profitability in the near future.

While CPN-UML Chairman KP Oli eagerly anticipates the tower’s unveiling—a personal endeavor in his home district—the crucial decision of post-inauguration management remains in limbo.

The construction company, owed approximately NRs 170 million, awaits resolution before relinquishing control.

The ambitious project, a collaboration between ZCGIEC, a Chinese company, and Ashish and Om Sairam Joint Venture, comprises 18 solid floors with three metal additions atop the 21-story structure.

However, the Auditor General’s scrutiny casts doubt on the project’s viability, urging the government to prioritize demand-driven initiatives to ensure a viable return on investment.

Furthermore, suspicions linger regarding the intentions behind the venture, with speculation rife that KP Oli and CPN-UML, aided by Chinese entities, seek to employ the tower for surveillance purposes against dissenting Janjati and pro-identity leaders, who oppose the CPN-UML party.