Assessment of Extension of Time in Rato River
Training Works, Mahottari District, Nepal
Student: Mahmmad Gulam Jilani
Supervisor: Er. Chakravarti Kanth
Submitted Date:
April, 2024
Abstract
Mahottari district in Nepal is situated within the terai region, struggling with significant
challenges related to river management, particularly concerning the Rato River. Despite
concerted efforts, delays in the implementation of these projects have emerged as a
pressing concern. This thesis investigates the extension of time (EoT) phenomenon within
the context of the Rato river training works project in Mahottari District, Nepal. The
primary objectives are threefold: to identify prominent causes of extension of time in Rato
river training works, to assess the major implications of extension of time in Rato river
training works, and to explore remedial measures aimed at completing the river training
works within the scheduled contract period.
A mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, is
employed to achieve the research objectives. Data collection involves the analysis of
contract data, administration of questionnaires to client and contractor personnel, and
conducting key informant interviews with senior experts in river training works.
Additionally, relevant literature from journals, articles, websites, thesis, and reports
pertaining to Rato river training works is reviewed. A total of 16 contractors and six
Engineer and Sub-Engineer personnel participated in the questionnaire survey, with
responses obtained from all participants. The Relative Importance Index (RII) method was
used to analyze the responses. Additionally, secondary data obtained from office records
were examined using MS-Excel for case study analysis. The findings are presented
through various charts and tables, supplemented by insights from Key Informants gathered
through interviews. The Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient (τb) was employed to
investigate the connection between variables and evaluate the magnitude and direction of
their correlation.
In this study, the researcher found prominent causes contributing to the extension of time
(EoT) in the Rato River Training Works project, highlighting the necessity for proactive
measures to effectively address them. Client-related issues, such as unreasonable project
durations and inadequate site investigations, emerged as primary prominent causes,
necessitating improved planning and coordination among stakeholders. Similarly,
contractor-related challenges, including low bidding and delays in conflict resolution,
VI
underscored the importance of clear contractual agreements and dispute resolution
mechanisms. External causes like weather-related delays and market fluctuations further
emphasized the significance of robust risk management strategies. The implications of
project delays encompassed a wide range of consequences, underscoring the need for
comprehensive assessments and informed decision-making to mitigate their impacts.
Remedial measures focus on adequate budget allocation, strengthened procurement
regulations, and stakeholder collaboration to enhance project management practices and
ensure timely project completion. By adopting a multifaceted approach and fostering a
culture of responsibility and commitment, stakeholders can effectively address the
prominent causes of EoT and drive successful outcomes in river training projects.
Keywords
Extension of time, Rato River training Works, Construction Projects, Causes,
Implications and remedial measures.