Butwal Chamber of Commerce Raises Concerns Over Municipal Sidewalk Clearance Campaign

Butwal. The Butwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed concern over the impact and methodology of the Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City's campaign to remove materials placed on sidewalks for road management.

Chamber President Hari Prasad Aryal stated that while they are committed to enhancing the city's aesthetics and easing traffic flow, any harassment of business owners under this pretext is unacceptable.

He alleged that municipal police mistreated business owners during the sidewalk management campaign. He claimed that the campaign has shown some improvement following dialogue and negotiations initiated by the Chamber.

Speaking at a New Year greeting exchange and calendar launch program organized by the Hardware Sectoral Committee under the Butwal Industry Association, Rupandehi on Saturday, President Aryal emphasized that the Chamber is focused on result-oriented work rather than just formal activities.

Noting that the municipal police's behavior has created fear among business owners, he stressed that future efforts should proceed through persuasion and facilitation. He also mentioned that the municipality is positive about returning confiscated goods and urged business owners not to place commercial items on sidewalks.

President Aryal announced that the Chamber will soon launch programs to assist business owners with tax, revenue, and customs-related issues and is preparing to operate a business consulting service at the Inland Revenue Office, Butwal.

Speaking at the event, former Chamber President Arjunman Sainju strongly opposed the activities being carried out in the name of market management, stating that they negatively impact the local economy.