Construction of parapets has commenced at the Gautam Buddha International Cricket Stadium in Bharatpur, rekindling hopes for its completion and readiness for matches.
Pillars for the parapets were initially erected four years ago. However, on August 6, 2021, the Dhurmus-Suntali Foundation halted construction due to financial constraints, and four months later, it withdrew entirely from the project.
After three years of inactivity, the government resumed construction in July 2024, with financial support from Bharatpur Metropolitan City and the Bagmati Provincial Government.
“The pace of work has significantly improved since construction restarted a few months ago,” stated Santosh Acharya, senior division engineer at the Metropolis. Before beginning parapet work, a technical inspection was conducted on the previously erected pillars.
“Currently, workers are cementing the parapet in Stand 1, after which they will proceed to Stands 2, 3, and 4 sequentially,” explained Birendra Kumar Yadav, the chief engineer and project manager. He further mentioned that pillars for VIP Tower 1 are being erected, while foundational work is ongoing for VIP Tower 2.
Additionally, Yadav highlighted the installation of an advanced water drainage system for the stadium.
As per the contract agreement, the Himalayan-Kalinchowk-BBR JV will oversee the construction of two VIP towers, a 10,000-capacity parapet, the ground, and the pitch. Once completed, the stadium will accommodate up to 15,000 spectators, according to Bharatpur Metropolis.
The project has been awarded at a cost of Rs. 785 million.