Upgradation Work of TU Cricket Ground in Full Swing (With Photos)
The Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Ground in Kirtipur is undergoing major upgrades to transform it into a modern facility with a para-pitch (drop-in pitch) and floodlights. However, the project has faced delays, prompting the government to impose financial penalties on the contractors.
Penalties for Missed Deadlines
Due to the failure to complete work on schedule, the contracting companies are now required to pay a daily penalty of 0.05% of the total project cost, amounting to over Rs. 2 lakh per day. The Ministry of Urban Development confirmed this penalty will continue until all work is completed.
Project Details and Current Progress
The upgrade involves two major components: para-pitch construction and floodlight installation. For the para-pitch, BECOID-CDC JV was awarded the contract at Rs. 49.25 crore, with work currently at 63% financial and 77% physical completion. Meanwhile, Vishan Ishwari JV is handling the Rs. 47.37 crore floodlight installation, which stands at 29% financial and 45% physical progress.
Recent Developments
So far, 4,000 seats have been installed, and three out of six planned floodlight poles have been erected. The contractors have committed to finishing all remaining work within one month. If they fail to meet this extended deadline - which allows for up to 200 days of penalty payments (capped at 10% of total project cost) - they risk being blacklisted from future government contracts.
The project, initially contracted in early March 2024, represents a significant investment in Nepal's sports infrastructure, aiming to create an international-standard cricket venue in Kathmandu.
