KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has banned the sale and distribution of imported flower garlands during the upcoming Tihar festival in a move to promote domestic flower production and support local farmers.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Senior Superintendent of Municipal Police Rajunath Pandey, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Force, said that the KMC has taken this step to discourage the use of foreign flowers and encourage the consumption of locally grown garlands. He stated that KMC will seize any flower garlands illegally imported into the city.
To support this initiative, the metropolis has established 32 flower sales and distribution centers across the city from October 18 to 23.
These centers will offer only Nepali-produced flower garlands. According to Pandey, the locations include NB Center in New Baneshwor, Big Mart in Shankhamul, Iplex Mall in New Baneshwor, Salesberry in Mid Baneshwor, Phoenix Tower in Battisputli, Tinkune Ground, Sifal Ground, AC Complex and Ganeshsthan in Chabahil, KL Tower and areas in front of Chabahil Center, Dharmachakra Park in Swayambhu, Kalimati and Kalimati Dhaukhel.
Other locations include Bhatbhateni in Kalanki, Valley Coldstore in Nayabajar, Buddha Mall in Machhapokhari, New Bus Park Bridge, Ganesh Mandir in Handigaun, Koiralamart in Samakhushi, Salesberry in Maharajgunj, Big Mart outlets in Gongabu and Baluwatar, Star Mall in Putalisadak, Bhatbhateni in Anamnagar, Kathmandu Mall in Sundhara, the Old Bus Park, and New Plaza in Putalisadak.
During the event, Krishnaman Shrestha, President of the Agriculture, Forestry and Herbs Committee of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, said that over the past three years, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City has coordinated with stakeholders to promote the use of indigenous flowers in Nepal, especially during festivals like Tihar.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening the local flower industry. Rajesh Bhakta Shrestha, President of the Nepal Floriculture Association, expressed the association’s commitment to supporting KMC’s policy. He said the initiative is key to ensuring the prosperity of both farmers and the national economy.
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