Give tourism a boost:

Tourism in Nepal has been greatly affected by the ongoing Maoist insurgency in the country. Businesses related to tourism are gradually closing down and those who are still in the business are having a tough time to sustain themselves. Declining tourist arrivals and limited tourism activities have hit the ailing industry hard. The people who are directly or indirectly associated with this sector see no signs of improvement and have lost faith in the industry which was once regarded as one of the main sources of income for many Nepalis and a major foreign exchange earner. It is high time the stakeholders worked together to find a solution to the present crisis. We have to work hard on damage control. We must use all our resources to promote Nepal as a safe destination. Our embassies and citizens living all over the globe can help in promoting tourism. At the same time, we must pressure the government into providing security to tourists and seeking funds to create an environment that is more welcoming to the tourists.

Rajeev Chhetri, University of Nebraska, USA

Nuisance:

The roadside market that was established on the occasion of Dashain and Tihar at Bhugol Park in New Road is still open. As the shops are lined along the footpath, it is very difficult for the pedestrians to move around. Hence, the pedestrians are forced to walk on the roads meant for vehicles, which is very dangerous. The same thing is happening with the vendors along the footpaths of Khichapokhari and New Road. Why does the KMC allow such a nuisance in the first place? And if it does not have a choice, it must make sure that the problems are taken care of very soon.

Kumar Shrestha, via e-mail

Impractical:

The demand of the Satyagrahis is total democracy. The King has announced elections for the local bodies and for the parliament. The political parties do not want to take part in the polls; in fact they are determined to obstruct the electoral process. How can there be total democracy without elections? It seems that the party leaders are old and hence their actions are impractical all the time. They should take example from other democracies around the world where aged leaders leave the party leadership when they are unable to fulfil their commitment. Why can’t the elections be held if the parties are sure of their success? Also, if the parties and the King fail to compromise, a third force could take over the country. All the parties should respect people’s wish for peace and violence must stop immediately.

Ram Bashyal, via e-mail

Go local:

THT has so far maintained the highest place among all the English dailies in Nepal. However, it appears that THT is losing its appeal by becoming a victim of ‘cut-paste’ syndrome. While international coverage is appreciated, should it overly depend on such sources as IPS, The Christian Science Monitor and The Guardian for its daily dose? Your reluctance to publish views of local importance may cause the readers to turn away from THT. Hope you will not disappoint us.

Siddha Raj Pant, Kathmandu