Stalled Infrastructure Commitments 2026

Complete Melamchi Water Supply

Phase 1 delivered 170 MLD via temporary infrastructure after 2021 flood destroyed headworks. Water resumed Oct 2024 but halted again Jan 2026 by local protests in Sindhupalchok over unmet compensation demands. Phases 2-3 (Yangri/Larke rivers for total 510 MLD) not started. Intake relocation 800m upstream to Sarkathali planned. Valley demand: 470 MLD, supply when flowing: 170 MLD.

Complete All National Pride Projects in 2 Years

27 national pride projects total; only 4 completed (Upper Tamakoshi 456 MW, Gautam Buddha Airport, Pokhara Airport, Melamchi Phase 1). World Bank warns remaining 17 would take 41 more years at current pace. FY 2025/26 budget: Rs 67.08B allocated, only 15.49% (Rs 10.39B) spent in first 6 months. Fast Track at 45% progress. Budhigandaki and Nijgadh spent zero. Railway project at 5% since 2008.

Complete Stalled National Pride Projects (2 Years)

Key stalled projects: Fast Track at 45.16% (Rs 83B of Rs 212B spent, deadline Apr 2027, Khokana dispute blocking start point). Budhigandaki Hydropower and Nijgadh Airport spent Rs 0 in first 6 months of FY 2025/26. Railway at 5% since 2008. Melamchi halted by protests Jan 2026. Only 15.49% of national pride budget spent in H1. World Bank says 41 years needed at current pace. PM Oli May 2024 directive for review yielded no visible results.