Terms of Reference (ToR): Construction of CBFT (Cement Bamboo Frame Technology) demonstration building

Terms of Reference (ToR)

1. Background descriptions

Bhawani Integrated Development Center (BIDC), in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity International Nepal, is implementing sustainable housing and community infrastructure projects in Siraha District. As part of this initiative, BIDC plans to construct a Bamboo Public Building/Bamboo Pavilion at Lahan-20, Siraha, promoting the use of treated bamboo as a sustainable and cost-effective building material. This project aims to demonstrate the potential of treated bamboo in public infrastructure, contributing to climate-resilient and eco-friendly construction solutions. The structure will serve as a model for sustainable design, showcasing bamboo's durability, affordability, and adaptability for various public uses. Additionally, this initiative will support local artisans, bamboo processors, and construction workers by enhancing their skills and creating economic opportunities.

Through this Request for Proposal (RFP), BIDC invites qualified and experienced national firms/contractors with expertise in bamboo construction to submit proposals for the design, supply, and construction of the bamboo structure. The selected firm will work in close coordination with BIDC’s technical team to ensure compliance with structural safety standards and sustainability principles.

Cement Bamboo frame technology (CBFT) is a disaster resilient and green building technology that uses bamboo as the only structural element. It is a technology that was developed by the HILTI Foundation and BASE Bahay Foundation to build stronger houses in a shorter period.

The construction assignment is for a single story CBFT demonstration building. The building should be of size 29x61 sq feet which consists of the meeting space with two room for office use. The major purpose of this project is to demonstrate the technology’s potential, versatility and scalability for replication.

The project is expected to be completed within the stipulated timeframe, contributing to the broader goal of mainstreaming bamboo as a viable material for public infrastructure development in Nepal.

2. Objectives

The primary objective of this construction assignment is to:

• Construct the Bamboo pavilion with CBFT demonstration building according to the drawings provided by BIDC.

3. Scope of Work

1. Review and analyze the architectural and structural drawings developed for Demonstration Building. 
2. Conduct site inspections to identify site conditions.
3. Prepare cost estimation as per prepared drawings.
4. Prepare a work plan with a timeline for the construction.
5. Construction with all architectural finishings as per drawings.

4. Deliverables

1. A work plan indicating the timeline of all works (site preparation, foundation, panel construction, roofing, flooring, wall finishes etc.) and construction completion date.
2. Cost estimation
3. Complete construction of Demonstration building.

5. Specific Inputs from Bhawani Integrated Development Center

1. Provide all required drawings for the construction of the demonstration building.
2. Coordinate with required stakeholders at various project stages.
3. Facilitate consultants’ access to all necessary information.

6. Requirement of the consulting firm

To complete the assignment successfully, a multidisciplinary team is needed; therefore, the firm and group of individuals who will apply for the assignment will have the following knowledge, skills, and work experience requirements.

1. Team leader should have proven experience in constructing Bamboo structure (particularly Cement Bamboo Frame Technology)
2. Knowledge of building codes and structural safety standards.
3. Field investigation and on-site analysis expertise.
4. Construction scope as an objective shall be reflected in the firm legal registered documents. 
5. Duration of the Assignment

The consultancy work is to be completed in 30 days from the contract award date.

Necessary meetings and consultations with BIDC and stakeholders will be conducted within the duration as per requirement.

7. Queries on TOR

In case of any confusion or clarification in this TOR, the firm/individual can send their issues at bidclahan@gmail.com or call at +977-9807785086/ 9817708181

8. Payment

The assignment fee will be paid in three installments in the following manner:

1. 1st Installment: 35% advance for starting construction after winning the proposal.
2. 2nd Installment: 55% after completion of construction works and submission of completion report.
3. 3rd Installment: 10% release after one month as retention period for repair and maintenance if necessary.

9. Documents Required

1. Company Registration Certificate
2. VAT Registration Certificate
3. Latest Tax Clearance Certificate.
4. As required by BIDC,Siraha Safeguarding Standards, all contractors/ companies/ firms and individual consultants need to submit criminal background check (Police Report) to be eligible for assignments.
5. CVs of the team members assigned for the project.

10. To Apply

Interested individuals should submit their Technical and Financial Proposal including testimonials/certificates to bidclahan@gmail.com Please write Bamboo pavilion CBFT Demonstration building Construction Proposal in the subject line of the email and submit the proposal no later than February  26, 2025.

11. Ethical Standards and Intellectual Property 

In accordance with its foundational mission principles, Bhawani Integrated Development Center Siraha is committed to the highest ethical standards and opposes all forms of discrimination, exploitation, and abuse. We intend to create and maintain a work and living environment that is safe, productive, and respectful for our colleagues and for all we serve. We require that all staff and representatives (consultants, contractors, vendors/suppliers, interns, volunteers, agents, and implementing partner organizations) take seriously their ethical responsibilities to Safeguarding (Child Protection, Prevention of Sexual Exploitation Harassment, and Abuse) our intended beneficiaries, their communities (especially children), and all those with whom we work. Abiding with the organization, the consultancy service has responsibilities to maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation, and abuse, safeguards the rights.