In a rather ambitious mode, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is mulling over the concept of developing satellite cities in order to relieve the capital of its perennial problems. The current National Budget says that such cities will be developed. The project, which will take about three decades to complete, is expected to tackle problems of traffic mismanagement, unsystematic sewerage and haphazard construction, which have veritably turned Kathmandu into a concrete jungle. Not to mention the frequent shortages of basic services, a result of the city’s overstretched capacity in the face of a rapidly-rising population.

It has also been learnt that the satellite cities, to be stretched over 12 sq km, will have all the basic amenities, including a subway transport system linking them to the capital. This will also help regular commuters avoid the regular rough and tumble of the Valley. People tend to migrate to the cities because of the availability of basic services, facilities and, above all else, better prospects. But many people would prefer a more comfortable lifestyle in the suburbs, provided that they can enjoy the same privileges and opportunities as in the capital. Unfortunately, the proposed project brings little hope for many, as they might not see it materialise soon enough.