Himal Press 
LUMBINI: The newly-appointed Vice Chairman of Lumbini Development Trust (LDT), Dr. Lharkyal Lama, officially assumed office on Thursday.
Taking charge at the LDT headquarters in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, Lama emphasized that he is dedicated to preserving the sanctity of Lumbini and ensuring its image remains untarnished. “I have been following the teachings of Buddha and spreading his message for a considerable period,” Lama stated. “Given Lumbini’s revered status worldwide, I am committed to collaborating with LDT officials, staff, and the local community to uphold its dignity.”
The controversial former lawmaker was appointed as the Vice Chairman of LDT last week after Abadesh Tripathi completed his term. He is a former ambassador, Constituent Assembly (CA) member, and former minister of state, and currently holds the position of the central committee member in CPN (Maoist Center).
Lama asserted that he will engage only in activities aligned with his wisdom, conscience, and abilities. He also expressed his intention to leverage his contacts and experiences to attract tourists from around the globe to Lumbini.
Earlier, LDT officials extended a warm welcome to Dr. Lama upon his arrival at the LDT headquarters.
Sanu Raja Shakya, the member secretary of LDT, said he was hopeful that the activities of LDT will be more productive under the new leadership.
On the occasion, Lama approved a plan to excavate and conserve a Kushan-era brick well along the banks of the Danab River in Nipaniya – some seven kilometers south of Lumbini. The well faces the risk of flooding.
