Parliamentarians throng ministry to clamour for petty projects ahead of annual budget

As Nepal gears up for the upcoming fiscal year's budget, a familiar scene is unfolding at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport: a deluge of project proposals from parliamentarians. These requests, often for small-scale schemes like road upgrades and bridges, are concentrated in their home constituencies, raising questions about the appropriate level of government for such initiatives.

Officials report receiving hundreds of proposals daily, with many costing well below the recommended threshold for federal funding. While the ministry registers these requests, they are subject to rigorous evaluation by the Department of Roads and the National Planning Commission. This process ensures that only projects deemed essential and feasible, after thorough assessment, are considered for inclusion in the national budget.

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We are receiving between 100 and 150 project requests every day.

The sheer volume of these proposals, sometimes reaching thousands in previous years, highlights the persistent pressure from elected representatives to secure development funds for their areas. However, the focus on small, localized projects, some of which could arguably be managed at provincial or local levels, points to a potential disconnect between national development priorities and the immediate demands of political representation. The ministry's role is to navigate this pressure while adhering to established guidelines and ensuring that public funds are allocated effectively.

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There is always pressure from elected representatives to include projects in the budget.