PM Karki Stresses Protection of Culture, Open Spaces in Projects
Prime Minister Sushila Karki has instructed authorities to ensure that development projects do not undermine religious beliefs or damage cultural heritage sites. While inspecting the Kathmandu–Tarai/Madhes Fast Track, a national pride project, on Tuesday, the Prime Minister stressed that local concerns must be addressed with seriousness and sensitivity.
She directed officials to revise road alignment, section demarcation and even the zero point if required, so that construction can move forward without hurting public faith. PM Karki also underlined the need to preserve open spaces, saying they are vital during natural disasters and for public movement, festivals and gatherings.
The inspection was attended by the Ministers for Physical Infrastructure and Transport and Foreign Affairs, senior bureaucrats, and security officials. Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel and Project Chief Major General Dharmendra Jha briefed the Prime Minister on progress and challenges.
The 70.97-km expressway, managed by the Nepali Army, has achieved around 45 percent physical progress. It includes 87 bridges and seven tunnels and is scheduled for completion by Chaitra-end 2083 BS within the estimated cost of Rs 213 billion.
