KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) on Thursday held discussions with representatives of the Federation of Contractors’ Association of Nepal (FCAN) on challenges facing the construction sector and measures to promote infrastructure development.

During the meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Shah said the construction sector is vital for economic growth, employment, and infrastructure development, adding that the government is committed to addressing its practical challenges. He stressed the need for greater cooperation to ensure timely project completion and make the sector more transparent, accountable, and results-oriented.

Federation officials, led by President Nicholas Pandey, raised concerns over payment delays, contract management, deadline extensions, price adjustments, timely project implementation, and banking and investment issues. They also called for stronger cooperation between the government and the private sector to revitalize the construction industry.