KATHMANDU: The ongoing controversy surrounding the construction of the cable car in Pathibhara, Taplejung, has sparked debate in Parliament.
During a House of Representatives session on Sunday, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) raised serious concerns over the escalating tensions caused by the cable car project in Pathibhara (Mukkumlung).
RSP MP Dr. Tosima Karki demanded an immediate halt to the cable car construction, urging the government to engage in talks with the protesting parties to reach a consensus.
She also called for the immediate release of those detained during the protests.
Karki expressed concern about the frequent clashes between the police and protesters, resulting in injuries, property damage, and even gunfire.
She described the situation as chaotic, with citizens divided into “pro-cable car” and “anti-cable car” groups, leading to anarchy.
She questioned the government’s inability to resolve the issue, asking, “Why is there such tension even when the party advocating for socialism is in power?”
Karki further accused the government of breaching agreements made with the protesters, stressing that development cannot be achieved through violence.
“Is this the way the government shows guardianship over its people?” she asked.
She also condemned the use of force, asking whether beating citizens and shooting them could truly be called development.
The local administration issued a prohibitory order in Phungling after tensions escalated during a protest against the cable car construction on Saturday night.
The decision to enforce the indefinite order came after a clash between the “No Cable Car” protesters and the police at Birendra Chowk in Phungling Bazaar.
The prohibitory order, effective from 5 a.m. on Sunday, applies to the Phungling Bazaar and Balludanda areas of Kaflepati.
Taplejung Chief District Officer Netra Prasad Sharma confirmed that the District Security Committee issued the order to prevent further disruptions to peace and security.
Comment