The authorities in Nepal have accused 55 people, including former ministers and a Chinese company, of corruption related to the construction of an airport, which exceeded the initial budget by 74 million dollars, reaching a total of 244 million dollars.

Nepalese authorities have filed charges against 55 individuals, including former ministers and officials, as well as against China CAMC Engineering Company Limited, for acts of corruption related to the construction of an international airport. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority claims that project costs have increased by 74 million dollars, from 169.6 million dollars to 244 million, due to financial irregularities. The airport, located in Pokhara, was built with a loan from China Exim Bank, but has failed to attract international flights since its opening in 2023. Legal proceedings in Nepal can take months or even years, and corruption remains a major issue in the country, leading to massive protests and the resignation of the government in September. General elections are scheduled for March.