By Bhauch Prasad Yadav,

Kathmandu, Nov.24: The Rasuwa-Timure dry port, constructed to provide integrated service of export and import, has been delayed.

Even though the foundation of the project was laid two years ago on 20 November 2019 with an aim to complete it within 30 months, that is, till May of 2021, but, only 18 percent of the physical construction is completed even after three years.

Ashish Gajurel, Executive Director at Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board (NITDB), said that the Rasuwa-Timure dry port, which is being built to facilitate bilateral trade between Nepal and China will not finish at the stipulated because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many Chinese workers working at the project had to return to China because of which the construction work was halted, because of which the project will not complete at the prescribed time. All the technicians and workers on this project are Chinese,” He added.

Currently, the work of the project is running at a fast pace, 18 percent of physical construction has been already completed. The project will come into life following its completion in 1.5 years.

Shovakanta Rawat, Engineer of the Association informed that a five-storey complex is being built to the 50,900 square meters stretched dry port.