KATHMANDU: Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has said that local governments should prioritize long-term planning over short-term political interests.
Speaking at a programme organized by Tokha Municipality to collect suggestions for policies, programmes, and budgets for fiscal year 2026/27, he stressed the need for sustainable planning at the local level.
“The opportunity to create work that will be remembered even after 20–25 years lies with current local representatives, so focus on long-term planning rather than short-term politics,” he said.
Minister Khanal, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kathmandu Constituency-6, noted that the southern part of Tokha is densely populated while the northern part still retains open land. He said emphasis should be placed on developing a well-planned urban settlement.
He also said that Tokha’s historic Newari settlement and its Saturday market could be promoted for tourism, and that homestay programmes could be developed to boost local tourism.
Khanal further warned that several settlements in Tokha may be affected by standards required for the expansion of the Tokha–Chhahare tunnel route, and said alternative solutions should be explored.
He suggested developing the Sangla Khola Corridor and Bishnumati Khola Corridor as alternative transport routes, which could allow for the construction of international-standard roads at lower cost and with less environmental impact.
To improve governance efficiency, he also emphasized the need for a digital system in the municipality so that services such as tax payments and official recommendations can be accessed online from home.
Bagmati Province MP and former minister Hari Prabha Khadgi Shrestha said citizens have high expectations from local governments and urged that policies and programmes be designed with people at the center, using available resources effectively.
She also cautioned that development work should remain free from political interference.
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