Dhangadhi, January 19

After the government named Dhangadhi of Kailali as the provisional headquarters of Province 7, authorities here have decided on buildings for housing the provincial assembly hall and the secretariat and the residential quarters of the governor.

A meeting was held at the district administration office of Kailali today to finalise the matter.  “As per the decision, the District Coordination Committee meeting hall will be used for the provincial assembly house,” said Urban Development and Building Construction Division Office, Dhangadi, Chief Rabindra Bohara. He added that the Cottage and Small Industry Office and residential quarters at the regional forest directorate will serve as the secretariat and residence of the governor.

Earlier, a team led by regional administrator Laxmiram Poudel had visited various government offices and residential quarters, looking for suitable places. “As the DCC is due to host its first provincial assembly meeting soon, preparations are under way,” he said, adding that the DCC-based technician’s office will be used for the provincial secretariat. The swearing-in of provincial assembly members is said to be conducted at a local party palace. The provincial assembly is 53-member strong.

Locations for the chief minister’s office and residential quarters have yet to be decided, according to Chief District Officer Govind Rijal. The cost of preparing the facilities to house ministries and residential quarters for ministers  is estimated at Rs 150 million. The cost estimate has already been forwarded to the government.