Minister Stresses Integrating History, Culture, and Ecology in Kathmandu Urban Planning

Kathmandu. Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Madhav Prasad Chaugain, has emphasized the need to make urban planning for Kathmandu city centered on sustainable development by thoroughly studying its historical, cultural, and ecological characteristics.

Speaking today at a workshop among stakeholders on the Kathmandu Valley Urban Transport System Master Plan, he mentioned the necessity for sustainable, safe, and inclusive transportation for the culturally significant and vibrant Kathmandu Valley.

Minister Chaugain opined that a single model of planning cannot be implemented in Kathmandu as it is not like other new cities. He stated that Kathmandu is established as a beautiful blend of centuries-old traditions, culture, and modernity.  

“Kathmandu is a historic city. It has its own history and tradition, a confluence of ecological systems and diverse lifestyles,” he said, “The soul and subtlety of the city must be reflected in the plan when planning the city.”

Minister Chaugain stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage, historical sites, and the concept of a 'city of the people' even while adopting modern and technological solutions. His view is that the government's goal is to build a human-centric city rather than a vehicle-centric one.

Minister Chaugain pointed out the potential problem of conflict arising during the implementation phase due to a lack of coordination between the ministry and relevant agencies during the planning process. “There is no dialogue between planners, engineers, and conservationists,” he said, “Therefore, coordination among all stakeholders from the beginning is essential for effective plan implementation.”

Mentioning that active work has been underway for about two months since the formation of the new government, he highlighted the need to effectively utilize the assistance received from the international community for national interest. In this context, Minister Chaugain noted that Nepal-Japan cooperation is multifaceted and long-term.

Recalling the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal-Japan diplomatic relations, Minister Chaugain stated that technology, ideas, and expertise are being received from Japan. “This cooperation is not one-sided; it is an exchange of knowledge and experience,” he said.

He expressed confidence that initiatives related to Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) will serve as a guide for future plans. Urging against unnecessarily complicating the process, he emphasized that the process must be simple, clear, and business-friendly.

Minister Chaugain stated that a single policy is not suitable for everyone, and context-specific strategies are necessary. “Most plans have failed when policies made in Kathmandu were implemented verbatim across the country,” he said, “Solutions are possible if there are different plans according to geography, culture, and lifestyle.”

Minister Chaugain emphasized the need to incorporate local knowledge and practices into policy formulation. “Just and sustainable development is possible only if diversity is understood as a basis for solutions,” he said.