Govt to begin reconstruction of structures damaged during Gen-Z protest in two months

KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal announced that reconstruction of key government structures damaged during the Gen-Z protest will begin within two months.

Speaking at a National Assembly committee meeting on federalism and national affairs on Tuesday, he said the rebuilding work would be funded from the current budget.

Minister Khanal estimated that the protest caused around Rs 100 billion in damages to government structures. He added that a fund of Rs 8 million has already been deposited for the reconstruction efforts.

He further noted that the government has prioritized strategic projects, including the Hulaki, Madhya Pahadi, and BP highways, by reallocating funds from fragmented or lower-priority projects. The minister highlighted that measures have been taken to ensure proper budget management, including public expenditure standards and criteria aligned with the demands of the Gen-Z protest.

Despite a temporary dip in tourism following the September protests, Minister Khanal said visitor numbers have now increased, and the government has taken steps to restore a conducive business environment after damages in the private sector.