POKHARA: Vice Chairman of National Planning Commission Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada today said that the government was contemplating over developing Pokhara a model city.

He floated the proposal for model city during the inaugural function of the National Industrial Fare, which began here today. Dr Khatiwada also welcomed suggestion and cooperation from local residents to move forward the plan.

The proposal as outlined by Dr Khatiwada, calls for constituting what is called 'grand Pokhara development corporation', which is to help realise all-round development of the Lake City.

Earlier, the Ministry of Tourism and tourism entrepreneurs had floated the proposal for a Pokhara tourism development corporation to boost tourists in the picturesque Lake City. Khatiwada also hinted that Pokhara would be merged with Lekhnath Municipality and adjoining VDCs. He, however, said before taking such a move, local residents would be consulted.

Speakers on the occasion, however, said that two prerequisites for a model city were plastic-free city and lush green surrounding.

Plans are also afoot for a regional airport, fast-track road connecting the city with Lumbini and a road network with India and Tibet. Kush Kumar Joshi, Chairman, Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industries, said the country would leapfrog economically if the political parties renounced bandh and strikes.