Deukhuri, Sept. 6: Construction of the administrative building for Lumbini Province has gained significant momentum. The project, which began on February 15, 2023, is advancing rapidly, with builders aiming to complete the work ahead of schedule. The new administrative centre, set to be handed over to the state government within next year, spans approximately 19 bighas and will house both the provincial assembly and administrative offices.

The proposed structure, designed in a mandala shape, is expected to centralise provincial government operations, streamlining service delivery and providing a unified administrative hub. The current plan includes relocating ministries, directorates, and departments that are situated outside the administrative complex to the new facility.

Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya has expressed optimism about the project, stating that all necessary structures for the administrative centre will be operational within a year. He highlighted that once the new building is completed, it will enhance efficiency by consolidating administrative functions in a single location. “It will simplify processes for both service providers and recipients,” he said. The Chief Minister has instructed builders to adhere to the project timeline.

According to the Provincial Capital Construction Project Implementation Unit, construction is progressing well on the 10 administrative buildings, including the offices of the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers. Pradeep Bhattarai, an engineer and information officer for the project, reported that work is on track, with exterior and interior finishing underway. The project aims to complete the construction by the end of the fiscal year 2025 AD. The goal is to make Deukhuri, located in the Rapti Valley, a model of administrative excellence.

Sharma Sagan JV Company is responsible for the construction, and the project has achieved 56 per cent physical and 45 per cent financial progress to date. The Chief Minister and Council of Ministers building will feature six floors, including 96 rooms, a meeting hall, a multi-purpose hall, and two elevators. The ground floor will be designed to be accessible to people with disabilities.

The nine ministry buildings, also designed in the mandala shape, will each have five floors and 54 rooms. These buildings will be equipped with elevators, disabled-friendly facilities, and underground parking. The project, which includes a road network and garden construction, is estimated to cost Rs 3.9 billion and is considered a state pride initiative.