Pokhara Launches Major Infrastructure Projects Worth Over 33 Billion Rupees

Kathmandu. Currently, major and pride projects worth over 33 billion rupees are underway in Pokhara Metropolitan City. 

Mayor Dhanraj Acharya stated that historic development works have been initiated in Pokhara in coordination with various international donor agencies. Among the key projects is a state-of-the-art exhibition center being built with 2.25 billion rupees in assistance from the Korean government. Mayor Acharya mentioned that the building's design will reflect Pokhara's identity, shaped like an 'overturned boat'. 

This itself will become a tourist attraction. He stated that it aims to provide employment to nearly 3,000 people. Similarly, a state-of-the-art 'burn center' hospital is being constructed with nearly 2 billion rupees in assistance from KOICA. 

The tender process for a disaster management center, supported by the Asian Development Bank, has already begun at the site of the old Lekhnath building. Mayor Acharya noted that an ADB project to construct a cycle lane connecting all of Pokhara's lakes is moving forward, and a botanical garden is being built at Shanti Batika. 

A master plan has been prepared to develop Pokhara's old market into a 'heritage site' similar to Hanumandhoka or Bandipur. A research center worth 1.25 billion rupees and a two-lane standard road are being constructed in the Panchase area. 

Under the 'Bright Pokhara' program, high-mast lights have been installed at major city intersections, and the work of putting electricity wires 'underground' in the main market is progressing at a rapid pace. 

With the support of the World Bank, the Talchowk-Begnas, Sisaghat, and Kotre-Birauta roads are being upgraded, which will establish Pokhara as a modern and safe city. —News Agency Nepal