Lumbini Province moves ahead to build its capital city

By Diwakar Pokharel,Deukhuri, Sept. 24: The Lumbini Provincial government has initiated a search for investment to construct its capital city, aiming to complete the project within 20 years at an estimated cost of Rs. 25 billion. 

This ambitious plan focuses on creating a model city based on river civilisation.

In the initial phase, the provincial government is seeking to secure resources totalling Rs. 25 billion, as its budget cannot cover the extensive costs associated with the capital’s construction. 

Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya announced that the government was exploring support from donor agencies and foreign loans to meet the financial requirements.

Acharya emphasised the importance of collective commitment from local citizens, political parties and public representatives to build the capital city. 

He said, “Firstly, it is essential to have a collective commitment of local citizens, political parties and community representatives. The government will commence the loan application process as soon as this commitment is secured.”

He said that the provincial government was actively seeking necessary resources for developing the capital city and plans to expedite land acquisition and city development even through loans.

Calling a meeting with political leaders and stakeholders, the Chief Minister also urged one and all to seek out donor agencies for the construction of the capital city.

In the discussion, the founding Chief Minister of Lumbini Province and CPN-UML general secretary, Shankar Pokharel stated that the responsibility for managing the provincial capital should lie not only with the government but also with the residents of the capital region.

He added, “The responsibility for organising the capital also falls on its residents; it is our shared duty to provide future generations with a city that offers convenience and amenities.”

Emphasising that the reason for choosing virgin land for capital is focused on constructing a modern city, Pokharel urged everyone to remember the political commitment made from the beginning.

During the discussion, concerns were raised regarding restrictions enforced on land plotting for the capital city, prompting a demand for its immediate relaxation. 

Provincial Assembly member Indrajit Tharu emphasised that political parties should prioritise the construction of the capital city in their agenda.

According to the Provincial Infrastructure Development Authority, efforts for land acquisition are underway.

Chief Executive Officer of the authority, Chhabiraj Pokhrel reported that progress has been made in constructing model plots by dividing 1,000 bighas of land into 14 packages.

He noted that there was a shortage of resources hindering the acceleration of land acquisition and infrastructure development.

Prakash Bista, chair of Rapti Rural Municipality, Suraj Khadka, president of Rapti Chamber of Commerce, Shankar Gautam, a member of the Lumbini Province Chamber of Commerce, and others involved in the discussion expressed their concerns about delays in implementing the master plan, noting that daily operations are being adversely affected due to insufficient land.