Dipayal, November 9

The priority election agenda of candidates in the first polls after democracy was restored in Nepal in 1990 was Sahajpur-Bogtan-Dipayal road in Doti. The residents of far-flung southern belt of the district cast their votes then with the hope they would have road access.

Now, the candidates have once again included road construction as a priority in their election manifesto for the forthcoming election two-and-a-half decades later.

Construction of Pashchim Seti Hydro Project is a common agenda among party candidates. Likewise, Pancheshwor Hydro-power Project and a dry port at Dodhara Chandani of Kanchanpur have also been made major election agenda. Development of Khaptad region and construction of cable car were election agendas in the first election after restoration of democracy but nothing materialised, said Doti, Bajhang and Bajura folks. They complained development of Khaptad area and Badimalika area are in the top priority list in the election manifesto and candidates have expressed commitment to the same. However, the folks have no trust. Development of Apinampa area in Darchula and Dhangadi-Khutiya-Dipayal-Bajhang-Taklakot- road section also are to be key election agenda this time as well.

“Though political forces have changed their polls candidates, they have not changed their election agenda of decades ago. We are disappointed with their false promises,” said voters.

CPN-MC politburo member and Kailali Constituency No 4 left alliance candidate Lekhraj Bhatta pledged to fulfil his commitment if he got the opportunity. NC’s Doti parliamentary candidate and Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transportation Bir Bahadur Balayar said construction of as many as 29 bridges was under way in Doti alone.