GANDAKI: Despite being part of the mid-hill highway in Kaski district, a 2.2 km stretch has remained unpaved for nearly two years due to what authorities attribute to contractor negligence and oversight lapses.

The four-lane road from Harichowk to Yamdi in Kaski district, designated under the mid-hill highway project, is smooth except for this segment, left unfinished for 22 months.

The highway project office in Parbat cited negligence on the part of Motidan Construction Service Pvt Ltd., the contractor responsible for the delay.

The company, awarded the contract in August 2022, was expected to complete the road within two years.

However, with the works still incomplete, the contract deadline has been extended until mid-April of the following year, informed office chief Kalpana Adhikari.

Adhikari elaborated on additional challenges contributing to the delay, including issues with electricity poles, management of drinking water pipes, and payment disputes.

Although termination of the contract was considered, the office decided to extend it after the contractor reaffirmed its commitment to expedite the work.

Acknowledging their own role in the delay, Adhikari admitted that the project office’s failure to make timely payments to contractors had also impacted construction progress.

Passengers utilizing this road section have voiced their inconvenience, citing tedious journeys and difficulties caused by puddles and potholes along the unpaved segment.

Moreover, the deplorable condition of the road poses an increasing risk of accidents for the hundreds of vehicles traveling between western districts such as Parbat, Baglung, Myagdi, Mustang, and Rukum Purba on a daily basis.

This road serves as a vital link to the capital of Gandaki province, Pokhara, highlighting the urgency of completing the pavement to ensure safe and efficient travel for commuters.

RSS