The PM hailed India's help and announced he would soon launch a campaign similar to Bhuj reconstruction in Nepal for post-quake rehabilitation

Kathmandu, February 23

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli today said the post-earthquake reconstruction in the Indian state of Gujarat was inspiring and vowed to build a strong and resilient Nepal following the devastation after the April 25 earthquake of last year.

After observing the post-quake recovery drive in Bhuj, Gujarat, on today, he said Nepal’s post-quake rebuilding drive would now kick off in full swing.

“I am quite impressed by reconstruction in Bhuj following the devastation caused by the 2001 earthquakes,” he said while addressing a function in Bhimasar, Bhuj. “We will also be launching a similar campaign in Nepal very soon.”

The prime minister said the exemplary rebuilding of Bhuj was possible only due to collaborative efforts of the Indian government and quake-affected people, which according to him, has boosted his confidence to carry out reconstruction work in Nepal.

Thanking India’s prompt help and significant support for Nepal after the April earthquake, he also hoped it would be further augmented in the days to come.

PM Oli, who is on a six-day state visit of India from February 19, reached the western state of India from New Delhi this morning.

He was accompanied by Nepal Reconstruction Authority’s CEO Sushil Gyawali and other delegates.

Governor of Gujarat state OP Kohli welcomed Oli and briefed about the overall rebuilding of the state following the devastating temblor of Gujarat, which struck on January 26, 2001.

At least 18,000 people had lost their lives and more than half a million infrastructure was destroyed in the 7.9 magnitude earthquake.

PM Oli said Nepal has now entered the phase of economic development and reconstruction as it has successfully resolved all political issues after promulgating the new inclusive constitution.

He also urged investors and entrepreneurs of Gujarat to invest in Nepal’s competitive advantageous sectors such as hydropower generation, road and rail infrastructure and tourism.

From Gujarat, the PM reached Mumbai this evening. Before returning home tomorrow, he is scheduled to interact with the Indian cine-community and address a business seminar in the Indian financial capital.