Kathmandu, Nov. 1 -- The Sunkoshi Marin Diversion Multipurpose Project's contract for constructing a dam and powerhouse has been cancelled just days before the financial proposals of shortlisted companies were scheduled to be opened, throwing the delayed national pride project into fresh uncertainty.

The project invited international competitive bids on June 8, giving prospective contractors 30 days to submit their proposals, seven months after terminating its previous contract. The process had reached the final stage, with three companies qualifying for financial evaluation. Their financial proposals were scheduled to be opened on Monday.

The cancellation was confirmed by Ashok Raj Gautam, a senior divisional engineer at the project. "...