RAUTAHAT: President Bidya Devi Bhandari inaugurated the Santapur Integrated Model Settlement constructed by Dhurmus Suntali Foundation in Rautahat on Tuesday.

President Bhandari handed over the keys of the houses to the settlement construction committee chairperson Satya Narayan Maharjan during a function in Chandrapur Municipality-8.

Foundation completed the construction of a total of 47 earthquake resistant houses and other infrastructures including temples, community hall, primary school, park and tower for the flood affected community of Santapur in the district.

The construction work that cost a total of Rs 59.5 million, was completed in 114 days, much earlier than estimated time.

Inaugurating the settlement, President Bhandari praised the duo Sitaram Kattel (Dhurmus) and Kunjana Ghimire (Suntali) of the Foundation and said that their work have brought positive impact on the society.

"Their effort has strengthened the harmony between people of mountain, hill and tarai regions," said President Bhandari. She also said that strong coordination between the people and Government in local levels can be the catalyst for nation's rapid development.

Meanwhile, Foundation's Coordinator Arjun Sapkota informed that the foundation has Rs 7 million in debt following the construction of the settlement.

Governor of Province 2 Ratneshwor Lal Kayastha, National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) Executive Director Yubaraj Bhusal, senior artists Madan Krishna Shrestha and Haribansha Acharya were among the designated guests of the inauguration ceremony.