KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 24
Urban Development Minister Kul Man Ghising has stated that reconstruction and infrastructure development activities in areas affected by the Gen Z movement and natural disasters are progressing rapidly.
Minister Ghising made the remarks while addressing a press conference at the ministry on Thursday to mark the completion of 100 days since assuming office, during which he outlined the key initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Urban Development.
According to the minister, substantial progress has been achieved in reconstructing structures damaged during the Gen Z movement, expanding urban infrastructure, improving waste management, conserving river systems, and advancing long-term urban planning initiatives.
During this period, four non-performing contracts under the ministry have been terminated.
Minister Ghising said that the reconstruction of 140 government buildings that sustained minor damage (green category) during the movement has reached its final stage. He added that detailed damage assessments of 249 partially damaged buildings (yellow category) and 51 severely damaged buildings (red category) are being conducted under a fast-track process, with the tender process for reconstruction expected to begin by mid-January.
In the sports infrastructure sector, the first phase of construction of the Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Stadium, along with the installation of high-mast floodlights, has been completed and handed over. In addition, the master plan for the Kirtipur Cricket Stadium has been approved, and the process of mobilising resources amounting to Rs 10 billion for the second phase of construction has been initiated, the minister said.
He further stated that obstacles in managing waste generated in the Kathmandu Valley have been resolved through negotiations, leading to the operationalisation of the Bancharedanda landfill site.
Minister Ghising noted that water distribution in the valley has resumed following the resolution of issues related to the temporary closure of the source of the Melamchi Water Supply Project through dialogue.
He also said that the concept paper for the Greater Lumbini Area Development Project has been approved and forwarded to the Ministry of Finance. Meanwhile, work is underway to finalise the Integrated Urban Development Roadmap for the Kathmandu Valley under the Kathmandu Vision framework.
On policy reforms, the minister stated that progress has been made on drafting the Right to Housing Regulations-2082, preparing the Bagmati Action Plan (2025–45), and amending laws related to the Municipal Development Fund and the Rural Infrastructure Development Policy.