KATHMANDU, Nov. 18 -- The Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC) has initiated the process to cancel contracts of 42 stalled projects due to contractor negligence and other reasons.

According to the DUDBC, eight project offices have already issued public notices asking, "Why shouldn't the contract be terminated?" for 37 projects, while the process of termination for the remaining projects is underway. Project offices in Chitwan, Kaski, Dhading, Kailali and Ramechhap have issued notices once, and Rupandehi twice. By regulation, a public notice must be issued first, giving contractors 15 days to respond before termination proceedings begin.

The DUDBC's Morang project office, Special Building Construction Coordin...