LUMBINI: Industrialist and Nepali Congress leader Binod Chaudhary has called on the Lumbini provincial government to prioritize development projects that leverage the province’s unique potential, particularly in tourism.
During an interaction with Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya in the provincial capital of Deukhuri, Chaudhary highlighted the importance of focusing on sectors such as self-employment, health services, social services, infrastructure development, and tourism.
He particularly highlighted the tourism sector’s immense potential, given that Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, a key spiritual and historical landmark.
Chaudhary suggested that the provincial government, when preparing the next budget, consider promoting the Buddha Circuit to attract global Buddhist tourists, which could boost both the economy and employment opportunities.
He stressed the need for a clearer vision in implementing such plans, noting that while the program was in place, there appeared to be a lack of effective implementation.
He further advocated for the development of the Buddha Circuit, which would encompass tourism promotion in Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, and Nawalparasi, thus expanding economic activities in the region.
In response, Chief Minister Acharya highlighted the provincial government’s plan to operate a monorail connecting the Buddha Circuit across these districts.
The feasibility study for the project is currently underway, and the provincial government plans to attract private sector investment for its implementation.
Acharya also expressed a commitment to branding Lumbini as the premier destination for Buddhists worldwide, aligning with broader tourism development efforts. He noted that the province was working closely with the Nepal Tourism Board to formulate a comprehensive plan for Lumbini’s development.
Chaudhary also submitted a written memorandum to the Chief Minister, urging the inclusion of development programs for West Nawalparasi in the upcoming budget, in addition to addressing ongoing development projects in his constituency.
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