Whenever the updated details of budget expenditure are made public, a disappointing statistic is available. In that, the condition of capital expenditure, called the development budget, is extremely weak. The federal government, which is hampered by traditional problems and working style, the so-called strong local governments, or the provincial governments that are struggling to cope with the obstacles and non-cooperation of the federal government, all have the same working style. Due to which, development expenditure tends to be weaker than expected.

As a result, we are failing in all aspects such as fulfilling the aspirations of development construction, receiving timely benefits from development projects, creating jobs, and building capital. This is why dissatisfaction is always prevalent in our society and the possibility of its use/misuse is also strong. Therefore, if we want to give enthusiasm and hope to the society, there is no alternative to accelerating the development construction work and linking it to the living standards of the people. The recent election results have also made it clear that the old way cannot be followed. The provincial governments and their partner political parties should feel the message of the election.

Two quarters of the current fiscal year have passed. Governments are preparing for the upcoming budget. However, the budget expenditure of all seven provinces is weak. In addition, the expenditure on the capital budget, which is called development expenditure, is low. For example, Koshi Province has allocated Rs 17.14 billion for capital expenditure in the current fiscal year, but has been able to spend only Rs 2.88 billion in 8 months. This is about 17 percent. Similarly, the Madhesh government has spent only a little more than 6 percent of the capital budget.

Only 17 percent of the capital budget allocated in Bagmati Province has been spent. Only about 21 percent of the capital budget has been spent in Gandaki. In Lumbini Province, about 21 percent of capital expenditure has been spent until last Magh (in 7 months). The Karnali government has been able to spend only about 13 percent of capital expenditure until mid-Falgun. Similarly, only 9.73 percent of the total budget for capital has been spent in Sudurpaschim Province. Such low expenditure is certain not to contribute positively to the development aspirations of the people. Therefore, a comprehensive change in the expenditure system is essential.

No one can think of an alternative to the federal government. The local level has also been popular because it works closely with the people, has a relatively sufficient budget, and carries out minor development work on its own initiative. Local level representatives have become like friends in the joys and sorrows of the people. Meanwhile, provincial governments have been struggling to establish their legitimacy.

It is understandable that the provincial government is finding it difficult to work due to the fact that the federal government has not made the laws that should have been made and has not sent employees. However, difficulties and non-cooperation are in their place. However, there is plenty of room to work despite them. If the province wants to strengthen its presence and gain popularity among the people, there is no alternative to breaking through obstacles and achieving success. That is possible when the people find the provincial government close to them, from the governance process to development efforts. The increased expenditure of the development budget can play a role in reducing the distance between the people and the provincial government.

In our country, there is a delay in the contract process in development projects. In addition, the actual work is delayed further when the 'site clearance' work is not completed. Even at the local level, disputes arise, and the work is not completed on time. After the work starts late, the expenditure also starts to be delayed. Litigation also prolongs the construction completion period. Some contractors do not complete the work on time. As a result, the project becomes dilapidated and deteriorates for decades. On the other hand, due to the pressure to increase development at the end of the financial year, low-quality work is done. Even the sight of laying blacktop during the Asad rains is visible.

On the one hand, this leads to misuse of the budget, and on the other hand, the risk of human casualties increases due to low-quality structures. Therefore, legal and administrative agility is essential to ensure that the contract is awarded quickly and the construction is completed within the specified time after the work starts. It should be ensured that no political or administrative turmoil hinders the development and construction work. Delays in bill payments also make capital expenditure appear lower than it actually is. Complaints of employees being distracted in the payment process have long been a common occurrence. Therefore, when arrangements are made to pay as soon as the work is completed, the expenses may also appear real.