KATHMANDU, June 2: The first phase of the construction of a conference hall which can accommodate up to 5,000 people, under the Lumbini Master Plan, has recorded 85 percent work progress.

According to the project, the construction work has gained momentum after Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Yogesh Bhattarai directed the Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) to complete the construction works within the stipulated time. But the lack of skilled manpower has hit the project.

“The roof needs to be installed with Korean technology so there were no workers, but now manpower from Hetauda and Kathmandu have been sourced,” said Gyanin Rai, member secretary at LDT. A total of 60 workers following safety criteria set by the government are working at the site.

After the completion of the first phase, the second phase construction is set to take place. Works like interior decoration, construction of fountains have been put under the second phase. The second phase work is expected to take place in the upcoming fiscal year 2020/21.

The construction of the meditation centre and the conference hall started two years ago with an estimated cost of Rs 385.6 million in the first phase. But the project was affected due to COVID-19 resulting in the delay in the construction work.

“Construction materials like false ceilings need to be imported from China. Other than that, the project has gained momentum and will be completed soon,” he said adding that the estimated cost has decreased by Rs 100 million and now the first phase works will be carried out with Rs 281.3 million.

 
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