LETTERS: Global terrorism

I am writing this in reference to the news story “Five dead, around 40 injured in UK parliament ‘terrorist attack” (THT, March 23, Page 1 and wire services). I am largely bamboozled by what is happening in the world that we are living. Whoever was being attacked we have a fair share of humanitarian obligations to bestow with telescopic philanthropy no matter what nationals were the victims. It could be your sister, wife, brother, father, friend or maybe yourself. We never know who can be the unfortunate victim in such a cowardly incident. The world needs to realise the need to come under the umbrella of humanity to safeguard the global citizens and their freedom. Innocent people have been butchered time and time again for matters that they have no control over. The international community must work together to tackle such brutal and terrorist attacks that may take place in any part of the world. We all must understand the fact that terrorists have no boundaries, religion, caste and creed and ethics. They can unleash brutalities simply to terrorise the society. They cannot change the regime or get their demands addressed simply carrying out such cowardly acts. It is only the innocent citizens who become the victims of such acts whose roots may lie somewhere else. Terrorism is a global threat which needs to be dealt with in close cooperation among the member states of the United Nations.

Shiva Neupane, Melbourne

Budget houses

Apropos of the editorial “Low-cost designs” (THT, March 23, Page 6), this must be the best thing to happen to the architectural landscape in the country. As a devoted fan of Laurie Baker, the brilliant pioneer of the low-cost architectural wonder, I feel that such affordable environment-friendly buildings could provide roof over not only a large section of impoverished Nepali population but also appeal to dollar spewing tourists. The most iconic Lodge in Dhulikhel was initially built on a shoestring budget by a smart and intelligent tourist guide. In fact, most tourism traders in rural destinations such as Kakani could drastically shorten the period of return on their investment by embracing such authentic low-cost buildings. Authenticity, service, cleanliness, hygiene and activities are what matter most than the size, shapes or cost of the hotel buildings. It would be of help to the public at large including hotel traders if NRA could post the details of designs including engineering structures on the Internet.

NRA designs would certainly challenge the notion of most architects and housing agents, and even hotel traders, who come up with over the top estimates running into crores for buildings in sprawling unplanned slums of the Kathmandu Valley. It is the design and texture of a house that matters the most. People in rural areas should also be educated how low-cost houses can be built beautifully using locally available materials.

Manohar Shrestha, Kathmandu