Three private sector bodies oppose protests against Pathibhara cable car project

KATHMANDU: Three major private-sector organizations have opposed protests and strikes against the ongoing Pathivara (Makkumlung) Cable Car Project.

Issuing a joint statement, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) and Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) expressed concern over the ongoing strikes in Koshi Province, citing their adverse impact on education, economy and daily life. The organizations added that such disruptions could harm Nepal’s investment climate and stall infrastructure development.

“It is well known that the private sector plays a crucial role in Nepal’s overall economic development. Investments made by the private sector in industries, trade, banking, energy, agriculture, tourism, communication, and various other infrastructure and service sectors have significantly contributed to the country’s prosperity. However, recent activities aimed at halting development projects send a negative message to both domestic and foreign investors. Therefore, we urge the concerned stakeholders to take this issue seriously and create an environment that ensures the smooth and uninterrupted execution of development initiatives,” the three organizations said in the statement. “The construction of tourism infrastructure in Pathivara (Makkumlung) will ensure a safe, fast, and convenient travel experience for elderly pilgrims, differently-abled children and other visitors. Additionally, the development of this infrastructure will promote religious, cultural and adventure tourism, boost agriculture and handicraft-based businesses, create direct and indirect employment opportunities for locals, and contribute positively to the overall growth of Nepal’s tourism sector.”

The three organizations have stated this obstruction to development is not just opposition to a single project but a threat to the overall investment-friendly environment necessary for Nepal’s infrastructure development. Stating that the issue can be resolved through dialogue, they urged the local community, concerned authorities and stakeholders to view this development initiative positively and ensure the smooth and uninterrupted progress of the Pathivara (Makkumlung) Cable Car Project.

Locals have been protesting the project, arguing that religious centers should not be developed into a commercial hub.