KATHMANDU, JANUARY 24

New York City has announced the suspension of alternate side parking (ASP) rules on Lhosar festival.

The New York City Council passed the bill (Intro-100), introduced by Korean-American Council Member Julie Won, unanimously on Thursday, January 23.

This move officially recognizes Lhosar as an ASP holiday, making it easier for Himalayan communities to celebrate the festival without the hassle of moving parked vehicles. In New York City, the Department of Sanitation requires vehicles parked on the streets to be moved during daily street cleaning.

After the council meeting, Council Member Julie Won and the Himalayan community organized a historic victory rally at the council grounds, attended by nearly 200 community members and several council representatives.

Addressing the crowd, Council Member Won stated, 'This is the first and only ASP holiday in New York City dedicated to Buddhists from Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia, India, and other countries. Over 61,000 New Yorkers celebrate Losar, and this bill is a significant milestone for our Tibetan and Himalayan communities. It is an honor to celebrate Losar with the community and to show respect for their culture.'

The bill to add Losar as an Alternate Side Parking-exempt holiday is possibly the most significant municipal policy in recognition of the significant population of Tibetan Americans & Himalayan Buddhists to date, Nick Gulotta, Chief of Staff at NYC Council said.

The program also included traditional performances, including Himalayan lion dances and Tibetan songs, added a cultural touch to the event.

The bill had the backing of 40 co-sponsors, including representatives from Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan boroughs. It was passed unanimously by all 48 council members present. Organizations such as Sherpa Kyidug and others have been advocating for Lhosar's recognition since 2017.

Lhosar, celebrated over 15 days, marks the Himalayan Lunar New Year with family gatherings, cultural events, and prayers for peace.

This year, Lhosar falls on February 30.