Kathmandu, Nepal A newly released investigation has revealed significant corruption issues surrounding the construction of the Pokhara International Airport in Nepal. The airport, built with Chinese funding and construction, was intended to be a major gateway for tourism, but it currently sees very little international traffic.
The investigation, commissioned by the Nepali government, found evidence of negligence and misconduct by both lawmakers and government officials. The report alleges that these individuals failed to adequately monitor the project, allowing for inflated costs and substandard construction practices. This lack of oversight ultimately contributed to the airport's underperformance and its failure to attract significant international airlines.
The $216 million airport, financed largely through loans from China, has become a symbol of concerns about debt-trap diplomacy and the potential for corruption in international development projects. Critics argue that the project was rushed through without proper due diligence, resulting in a facility that is not economically viable.
The report recommends further investigation into specific allegations of corruption and calls for stricter regulations and oversight for future infrastructure projects. The Nepali government has pledged to take action based on the findings, but faces a challenge in addressing the deep-seated issues of corruption and mismanagement within its bureaucracy. The future of the Pokhara International Airport remains uncertain, with its success hinging on the government's ability to address the issues raised in the investigation and attract more international flights.
Nepal Airport Plagued by Corruption, Investigation Reveals
An investigation in Nepal has uncovered widespread corruption surrounding the construction of a Chinese-built airport. The inquiry found that lawmakers and government officials failed to properly oversee the $216 million project. The airport, intended to boost tourism, currently handles only one international flight per week. The findings raise serious questions about transparency and accountability in infrastructure projects.