ADB pledges support to govt in energy sector, infrastructure

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has pledged support to the government in addressing the country’s development constraints including energy, transport, urban and rural infrastructure.

From right) Juan Miranda, Director General of ADB's South Asia Department and Kenichi Yokoyama, Country Director, Nepal Resident Mission of ADB at a press briefing in Kathmandu on Thursday, 27 Sept 2012. nepalnews.com

Juan Miranda, director general of ADB’s South Asia department, Miranda held meeting with Finance Minister, Vice-Chairperson and members of the National Planning Commission, Chief Secretary, other senior government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and the media, expressing support in Nepal’s development.

He also sought government support and active participation by all stakeholders in the formulation of ADB’s new Country Partnership Strategy for Nepal.

Similarly, Miranda also discussed the Melamchi Water Supply Project with the government.

“We had a productive discussion with the Ministry of Urban Development on the specific actions to move forward, including the smooth settlement with the outgoing contractor, and swift selection of an internationally reputed, committed and dedicated contractor who can deliver high quality infrastructure in a timely and efficient way,” ADB press statement quoted Miranda as saying.

He stressed that ADB was fully committed to providing the necessary support to the government to ensure that the project is completed by early 2016 or earlier, given the importance of the project to alleviating acute water supply shortages for the 2.6 million people in the Kathmandu Valley.

Miranda also discussed the country’s critical energy shortages and reiterated ADB’s commitment to supporting the government in resolving the issue. In meetings with the Secretaries of the Ministries of Energy and Finance, Miranda discussed the proposed 140MW Tanahu Hydropower Project, which is at an advanced stage of preparation. Discussion focused on the financing structure, and the need and steps to engage highly qualified construction supervisors and contractors to achieve timely construction of this critical infrastructure.

Miranda also said that ADB is keen to work closely with the government in helping to reduce poverty and promote inclusive growth for all Nepalis. nepalnews.com