RASUWA: Production of briquettes has started in Rasuwa district to help minimise the effects of climate change by preserving natural diversity.

Banmara and Titepati plants, which are found in abundance in the district, are used to make briquettes for fuel. Food can be easily cooked for a family of 10 members with one briquette and it is threefold cheaper than cooking gas.

A non-governmental organisation named Kasitash has taken the initiative for briquette production. In the first phase, the production has begun at Gatlang, Goljung, Safru and Bhridim VDCs, said field executive Sukra Tamang adding that around 200 pieces of briquettes have already been produced.

On one hand, villagers are getting employment and on the other briquettes ensure smoke-free environment in the kitchen, said a farmer of Sanu Bharku, Kamisitar Lama. He said that 34 women are into briquette production.

Meanwhile, the Langtang National Park and the World Wildlife Fund have assured of extending support to the novel initiative.