Adverse security issues and project start-up delays are two main factors that have adversely affected and delayed almost all previous projects in Afghanistan, except those where these issues were carefully handled in advance. Furthermore, insufficient surveys during project processing, and major changes in the technical design parameters during project implementation, can also cause serious implementation delays and significant cost overrun. The project suffered security issues until the situation was fixed with the help of additional security arrangements. This caused about 12 months of delay as the project area was prone to major terrorist attacks. It also delayed the contractor's mobilization. Further, because the area was remote and insecure, the initial project design was done through geospatial analysis, eventually resulting in a significant design change and cost increases. Follow-on projects should carefully address these factors up front during loan or grant processing. Advanced contracting must be executed to avert start-up delays. Extensive security measures should be planned and budgeted for from the start.
North-South Corridor Project