Pandey calls for two-phase plan to speed up parliament building project

KATHMANDU: Chief Whip of the CPN (Maoist Centre), Hitraj Pandey, has emphasized the need for a two-phase working strategy to ensure the timely completion of the under-construction new parliament building.

Speaking at a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on the Implementation and Evaluation of the Directive Principles, Policies, and Responsibilities of the State, held Friday at Singha Durbar, Pandey raised concerns over the project’s slow progress.

Referring to recent performance data, he questioned the effectiveness of the current pace. “The progress from Asar 17 to Shrawan 15 stands at only 3.30 percent. Is that really satisfactory?” he asked.

Pandey noted that although there had been commitments to finish the work on time, the results so far have been limited to paperwork. “We’ve been saying this from the beginning. The work hasn’t been completed within the scheduled timeframe, and merely extending the timeline does not guarantee completion. Even now, doubts remain whether the revised schedule will be met,” he remarked.

He added that discussions of splitting the project into two or three phases might be under consideration, but stressed that concrete and accelerated action is needed. “No matter how much we talk, progress has not been swift,” he said.

Despite the delays, Pandey assured that the parliamentary committee is alert and committed to supporting the government in any way necessary to expedite the project.