Aggregate supply dispute stalls Tribhuvan airport expansion

Expansion work at Tribhuvan International Airport, a national pride project in Nepal, has ground to a halt. The disruption is caused by a dispute over the supply of high-grade crushed stone, essential for the airport's specialized infrastructure.

The conflict pits aggregate suppliers against Godawari Municipality in Lalitpur district. A court order further complicates matters, preventing construction materials from leaving local quarries. Dipendra Shrestha, project director of the Air Transport Capacity Enhancement Project, confirmed that work on two critical airport facilities has stopped. "Blacktopping of the northern uniform taxiway has stopped completely. The contractor has also suspended concrete paving on the newly built international apron," Shrestha stated, noting that both night and day operations are affected.

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Blacktopping of the northern uniform taxiway has stopped completely. The contractor has also suspended concrete paving on the newly built international apron.

With nearly 90 percent of the expansion complete, the shortage of materials has stalled the final phase. Shrestha warned that the delay will inevitably push back the completion deadline and increase project costs. "If the aggregate supply remains blocked, contractors will have to be granted additional time. That could also drive up the overall cost of the project," he said. He emphasized the unique requirements for airport aggregate, which must withstand aircraft weighing 200 to 300 tonnes, unlike ordinary road construction materials.

Three crusher plants in Godawari have been supplying the necessary aggregate. However, operations have ceased. According to one proprietor, a contempt of court case was filed after the municipality allegedly failed to implement a high court order. Municipal police presence around the quarry area reportedly prevents material transport. The mayor of Godawari Municipality denied responsibility, stating the matter is before the court and the municipality is not blocking supplies.

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If the aggregate supply remains blocked, contractors will have to be granted additional time. That could also drive up the overall cost of the project.