Inability to complete construction work on time and extending the construction period due to various reasons has become a major ailment in the construction industry. Extension of Time (EOT) has been experienced in Construction of hydropower projects in Nepal from the preliminary construction stage viz. Test Adit Tunnel (TAT) Construction. When the construction work of the TAT is delayed, the entire project tends to slow down, leading to hindrance to further study of hydropower projects for the further investigation which ultimately requires additional extensions and subsequently creating more complexities in other hydroelectric project’s construction works that follow. The issue of time extensions has not only created the current problem but also the associated further challenges within the construction sector, precipitating a cascade of complexities. Moreover, the frequent amendment in PPR incorporating provisions related to time extensions at various intervals, has not only highlighted the issue of time extensions but has also emphasized the necessity for more research on this matter. This research explores issues related to EOT more precisely by a comprehensive assessment. This Study aims to identify Causes for the entitlement of EOT, its impacts and suggested mitigation measures for major causes for EOT in 7 different TATs of selected 7 hydropower projects larger than 100MW installed capacity accomplished by various 6 hydropower companies. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. 38 Causes for the entitlement of EOT and 12 Impacts of EOT were found relevant to these projects after having the literature review and suggestion from KII. Then Data were collected representing from clients, consultants and contractors via Google Forms using a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire survey with additional project related data relevant to the EOT from mentioned project officials and others. The Relative Importance Index (RII) prioritized causes and Impacts with identification of major 10 causes for the entitlement of EOT and 5 Impacts of EOT. Delay in Explosives purchase approval & its consequences, COVID-19 pandemic, Shortage of Explosives & accessories, Delay in Handling & Transportation of Explosives and Other public authorities cause delay or extra cost to the Contractor, were found as major causes for the entitlement of EOT. The study also concluded that the topmost impact of EOT was the increase in public vi dissatisfaction and negative perception towards the project. The Delay in study / generation of hydropower projects and additional financial burdens to the stakeholders, were other impacts of EOT. The causes and impacts were also prioritized according to respondent’s representing group. The rank correlation among respondent’s representing group, the client/consultant and consultants was found to be strong. This study underlines the need of optimization of explosive approval process including transportation and handling to mitigate the EOT issues. Also, recommendations include the formulation of realistic contract duration with respect to nature of works and sufficient coordination between stakeholders. Ultimately, this study provides significant insights to address the EOT issues in the TAT of hydropower projects.

Keywords

Test Adit Tunnel, Hydropower projects, Construction, Extension of Time, Relative Importance Index (RII).

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