KATHMANDU, AUGUST 11

People's representatives and industrialists from Banke and Bardiya met Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli today to urge the initiation of direct flights between Nepalgunj and New Delhi, India.

During a meeting held at the Prime Minister's residence in Baluwatar, they stressed that such a service would drive the commercial growth of 32 districts in western Nepal, noting that Nepalgunj Airport already has the necessary infrastructure in place.

After receiving their memorandum, Prime Minister Oli expressed a positive outlook on the proposal and assured that discussions would be held with Indian authorities. He also underscored the need to further expand the Nepalgunj Airport runway and ensure proper land conservation.

Later the same day, the delegation met with Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, seeking her support in launching the air service between the Indian capital and western Nepal.

In response, Foreign Minister Rana pledged to take the initiative, emphasizing that the service would be mutually beneficial for Nepal and India. 'Enhanced connectivity between the two countries will boost tourism, transit, trade, and people-to-people relations, benefitting both sides,' she said.

The delegation further requested that the matter be made a priority agenda item during Prime Minister Oli's upcoming visit to India, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

(With inputs from Rastriya Samachar Samiti)