POKHARA: Although reports had emerged that Prime Minister Balendra Shah would travel to Mustang via Pokhara, it was initially unclear where he would stay in Pokhara. The general public was unaware of his whereabouts until it was later revealed that he would spend the night in Astam.
Astam lies in northern Kaski and can be reached via Hemja on the Pokhara-Baglung Road. The quaint village offers close views of scenic mountain ranges.
Locals were delighted to learn that the prime minister and his family would stay at Annapurna Eco Village in their own village. They knew something unusual was happening when they noticed the presence of Nepal Army and Nepal Police personnel on their mountain roads. The eco-village found itself instantly thrust into the national spotlight as word spread that PM Shah was spending the night in their midst ahead of his trip to Mustang.
Local resident Shobhakhar Adhikari saw the surprise visit as a rare opportunity to bring village struggles directly to the nation’s leader. He said he would ask the Prime Minister for water and better roads if he got an opportunity to meet him.
The village is reeling under a shortage of drinking water. Adhikari said water brought from Dhampus is sufficient during the rainy season but does not meet demand in winter.
Prime Minister Shah is scheduled to visit the trans-Himalayan district of Mustang on Saturday. As the visit is entirely private,e the security agencies in Kaski and Mustang were reportedly not informed in advance.
Shah traveled from Kathmandu by road with his family members.
Kaski Assistant Chief District Officer Chitrangad Baral clarified that Shah was on a purely family visit and had no other formal programs scheduled.
Similarly, Mustang Chief District Officer Ajita Sharma said they had been told that it is an informal visit. “Security preparations are in place nevertheless,” she added.
Annapurna Eco Village Resort has gained popularity in recent years. It offers yoga and meditation classes and provides guests with accommodation in a peaceful environment.
Resort operator Bishwaraj Adhikari said the resort has around two dozen rooms. The resort is jointly operated by Adhikari and his brothers.
