KATHMANDU: The Federation of Contractors’ Associations of Nepal has announced a phased protest, citing the government’s failure to address its demands.
The federation plans to submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister, relevant ministers, and the provincial Chief Minister’s Office by Magh 15, giving an ultimatum for the resolution of its concerns.
If the demands remain unaddressed by Magh 15, the federation has outlined a series of protests, starting with a sit-in at Maitighar on January 31, followed by another sit-in at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar on February 2.
From February 3, they plan to block the eastern and western border crossings entering the capital. If the government still does not meet their demands, the federation has warned that all types of construction work, including national pride projects, will come to a halt, and the protest will intensify.
Federation President Ravi Singh expressed frustration, stating that despite deadlines being extended due to insufficient government budgets, construction entrepreneurs are unfairly blamed for delays.
He also highlighted unresolved issues related to payment, despite multiple assurances from the government.
The decision to initiate the phased protests followed a national meeting held on December 10, where construction entrepreneurs from across the country gathered to discuss the ongoing problems in the industry.
The federation has been urging the government to address issues such as unreasonable price hikes in construction materials like cement and concrete, payment delays, legal complications concerning deadline extensions in the 13th amendment to the Public Procurement Regulations, reductions in loan facilities for construction entrepreneurs, and the implementation of past agreements.
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