KATHMANDU: The conference hall and cafeteria constructed within the Republic Memorial area inside the Narayanhiti Palace Museum premises have remained non-operational even six years after being formally handed over.
The structures were built by the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction at a cost of Rs 449.15 million and handed over to the Narayanhiti Palace Museum Development Committee on January 17, 2020.
Despite completion, the facilities have not been brought into use, prompting the Office of the Auditor General in its 63rd annual report to direct that the structures be made operational.
The facilities are located within the 35-ropani Republic Memorial area inside the museum complex and include a conference hall, cafeteria, underground parking, a martyr’s pillar, a national map installation, and four symbolic pillars.
The Narayanhiti Palace Museum Development Committee was established to preserve and promote the historic and cultural significance of the former royal palace site and the Republic Memorial area, while also showcasing archaeological and historical artefacts.
Officials say the area was intended to function as an important national heritage and commemorative site, but key infrastructures within the complex continue to remain unused despite heavy investment.
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