PM meets Gandaki's MPs, wraps talks

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Apr. 4: Prime Minister Balendra Shah wrapped up group discussions with members of the House of Representatives on Friday after meeting lawmakers elected from Gandaki Province.

He began consultations with lawmakers on Monday, holding discussions with representatives from Karnali and Koshi provinces.  

As in previous meetings, Friday's discussions focused on development and contemporary political issues.

According to the Prime Minister’s communication facilitator, Surendra Bajagain, the discussion centred on the development of Gandaki Province, key infrastructure projects, and the immediate needs of the public. 

The Prime Minister sought suggestions from the House of Representatives members elected under the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system on plans that could be implemented promptly in their respective constituencies.

During the meeting, lawmakers raised issues such as road infrastructure, drinking water supply, tourism promotion, and several incomplete development projects in their constituencies. 

They also called for a special budget to upgrade the road network linking the provincial capital, Pokhara, with other districts, as well as for the modernisation of the agricultural sector.

After hearing the concerns raised by the MPs, Prime Minister Shah assured them that the government would prioritise both public grievances and development requirements. Bajagain said that the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, in coordination with the relevant ministries, would study the issues raised and take necessary steps to address them.

The Prime Minister had previously held similar consultations with lawmakers from other provinces. Such direct engagement between elected representatives and the head of government is expected to help address policy and practical challenges that have hindered the implementation of development projects.