Bombshell Report: Polihali Dam Contractor ‘Incompetent’, Experts Call for Major Descoping

This report covers bombshell report: polihali dam with key details and context.

An international panel of experts has declared the main contractor for Lesotho’s multi-billion maloti Polihali Dam incapable of delivering the project, forcing the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) to descope critical works. The Engineering Panel of Experts (EPOE) report, compiled by world-class engineers, found that SUN JV—a joint venture comprising China’s Sinohydro Bureau 14, Unik Civil Engineering, and Nthane Brothers—lacks the capacity to construct the dam to required standards. Sources say the LHDA had no choice but to remove major components like the intake tower, outlet works, and spillway from SUN JV’s contract and award them to other contractors. The descoping is a major admission of failure, with experts warning that poor materials and reliance on Chinese machinery caused severe delays. Prime Minister Sam Matekane is being urged to demand accountability, as officials and middlemen are alleged to have profited from the project. The report also recommends the LHDA lease heavy equipment from South Africa to bypass import delays. The Lesotho Times has learned that five contractors have been shortlisted for the descoped works, but the LHDA has not disclosed the expert findings to bidders. The project, launched by King Letsie III and President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2023, was scheduled for five years but has already seen delays, escalating costs, and now a major scandal.

Article source: lestimes.com | Image credit: GroundUp

bombshell report: polihali dam: key developments so far.

Why it matters: understanding bombshell report: polihali dam helps readers navigate updates with confidence.