Corruption Unveiled: Nepal's Pokhara Airport Scandal

Nepal's anti-graft body has filed a corruption case against 55 individuals, including former ministers and officials, over the misappropriation of funds in the Pokhara International Airport project. The project, funded by China, faces allegations of misuse of over 8.36 billion Nepali rupees.

The anti-corruption commission in Nepal has brought a significant case to light, charging 55 individuals, among them five former ministers, with corruption linked to the Pokhara International Airport project. The project, which received a soft loan from China, has a financial discrepancy involving billions of rupees.

The high-profile case includes allegations of misappropriating over Nepali rupees (NRs) 8.36 billion. Those named in the charge sheet consist of past and current officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), as well as representatives from the Chinese contractor company involved.

This case has stirred national attention, considering the airport is a crucial gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, a world-renowned trekking destination. Despite its operational start in January 2023, the airport has yet to secure regular international flights.

(With inputs from agencies.)