National Assembly Members Urge Immediate Amendment to National Parks Act

Kathmandu. Members of the National Assembly have demanded that the government immediately amend the existing National Parks Act.

Speaking at the National Assembly meeting on Friday, lawmakers including Dr. Anjan Shakya and Sumitra BC alerted the government to amend the Act promptly so that it aligns with the current times.

Lawmaker Shakya also drew the government's attention to streamlining the relief distribution system for damages caused by wildlife.

She stated that it is essential to broadly amend the National Parks Act according to today's needs.

Lawmaker Shakya said, 'Simplify the relief system for wildlife damage and arrange for it to reach bank accounts directly within 30 days. Broadly amend the Wildlife Act according to today's needs. Especially guarantee insurance for residents of buffer zones and end the cumbersome process for forest entry for hydropower projects. National Parks should be made areas for carbon trading and tourism, not just areas of prohibition.'

Lawmaker BC stated that it is necessary to amend all laws that hinder the work of the National Parks. She also cautioned the government to make necessary legal arrangements for the proper utilization of timber inside the parks.

Lawmaker BC said, 'There are situations where the existing law complicates the work of the National Parks. Suggestions have been made to amend this. Instead of letting the timber inside the parks rot, it should be utilized properly. The upcoming government needs to pay special attention to this.'

Lawmaker BC also urged the government to operate the National Parks under the supervision of local levels.