BUTWAL: Chief Minister of State-5, Shankar Pokharel has claimed that Bhalubang, the state capital, fully represents the entire State-5. Bhalubang covers some parts of Arghakhanchi and Dang districts.

Addressing the State Assembly meeting, taking special time on Tuesday, CM Pokharel, further said, “The capital also represents the psychology of erstwhile Lumbini and Rapti zones.

The Rapti River bank or the proposed capital has not only touched the Lumbini and Rapti but also carries the psychology and development of Banke and Bardiya districts.”

CM also argued that the name and capital of the state proposed by the government were based on the recommendation of the special committee formed by the parliament. People’s (from 12 district in state) aspiration for development and prosperity were considered before proposing the name and capital.

“Prosperity in State-5 also creates base for prosperity of the country,” he asserted.

Moreover, he elaborated that the capital was announced as per the plan to develop model cities. CM Pokharel refuted the allegation that he named the state capital near his home district by saying, “It takes equal time to reach Bhalubang from CM’s village and from Butwal. I’ve no interest here at all but of the state.”

He assured that state government would develop cultural and touristy areas, comprising some parts of Rupandehi, Kapilvastu and Nawalparasi districts so there was no point in worrying about the state capital.

According to him, the Lumbini region has now been expanded to a dozen of districts from six districts. Trades and industries are to expand accordingly.

The DPR for Butwal-Bhairahawa industrial corridor has been readied while the Lumbini Hospital will be developed as a model hospital of the country.

The CM further shared about various development projects in the offing in State-5. RSS