Kathmandu, August 23:

Preparations are underway to organise a three-day rafting festival in the Kali Gandaki river in Syangja. According to the organisers, the event will kick off on November 9.

The main organising committee of National River Festival and Kali Gandaki River Rafting Festival 2008 said at an interaction today that the committee was working on war footing to organise the event.

At the interaction, people from Syangja, Palpa and other neighbouring districts expressed support for the festival. They called all sections of the society to make the event a success. The committee has organised similar interactions in Syangja and Pokhara.

On the occasion, member of the committee Yam Poudel said Rs 2.6 million would be required to organise the festival.

CA member Goma Pathak suggested the organisers to make the festival a national-level event.

Former chairman of the Public Service Commission Prof Dr Ganesh Man Gurung said the committee should seek support from government agencies concerned, including the Nepal Tourism Board.

MOC president Dr Buddhi Shrestha said the festival would help promote tourism in Syangja. "Efforts are underway to develop Syangja as a favourite destination for tourists. We are getting support from different sections of society in our endeavour." He said rafting in the Kali Gandaki River would be an exciting experience for all. Organisers expect to attract some 50,000 Nepalis at the event.