Nepal’s primary anti-corruption body has initiated legal proceedings against five former ministers, dozens of senior officials, and a Chinese construction firm in connection with the development of Pokhara International Airport. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority alleges widespread graft involving approximately 8.36 billion Nepalese rupees.
According to the formal charges, the accused colluded to unlawfully inflate the project’s budget from an initial estimate of $145 million to a final cost exceeding $215 million. The commission asserts that procurement regulations were violated by restricting the bidding process exclusively to Chinese companies. These actions, described as being done with “malicious intent,” allegedly led to excessive payments and compromised construction standards.
The airport, which opened in early 2023, was financed through a loan from China. Despite being envisioned as a regional travel hub, it has failed to attract international flights and currently functions primarily for domestic travel. Concerns from airlines regarding operational viability and safety have been reported.
Prominent figures named in the case include former Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat and several former tourism ministers. Also charged are multiple retired government secretaries and the head of the country’s civil aviation authority.
The case follows an extensive parliamentary investigation that uncovered significant irregularities and referred the matter for prosecution. The charges have been welcomed by youth-led anti-corruption groups that have held sustained protests demanding accountability. Government representatives have stated a commitment to addressing graft and meeting public expectations for transparency.
A special court will hear the allegations.
