Jul 24, Kathmandu - The Directorate of the North-South/Trade Route Expansion Project under the Department of Roads has issued a notice to the contractor responsible for the Khalalu-Sallisalla Road on the Karnali Corridor (South Section) in Bajura, demanding a detailed explanation within 15 days regarding delays in the project's progress.

The project involves upgrading the road from Kuwadi to Tumsang under the Karnali Corridor, with a purchase agreement signed between M/S Contak-Singa JV Kathmandu and the project office.

Despite repeated verbal and written reminders to complete the work on schedule, the project office reports that the contractor has shown no interest or effort to advance the work. Due to the lack of progress and deviation from the scope outlined in the purchase agreement, the office has issued a 15-day notice questioning why the contract should not be terminated.

According to provisions in the Public Procurement Act, 2063, and the Public Procurement Regulations, 2064, if there are valid reasons for not terminating the contract, the contractor must present an objective and credible explanation within 15 days from the publication date.

Failure to provide a satisfactory explanation within this timeframe will be considered as a final warning, leading to the termination of the contract and the contractor's blacklisting. Additionally, the amounts paid as work guarantees and advance payments will be forfeited.

The project chief also stated that any additional costs incurred due to the non-completion of work will be recovered from the contractor as per the Public Procurement Act. The government will also recover any outstanding dues related to the project from the contractor.