Lalitpur: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development Prakashman Singh has stated that the government is dedicated to sustainable urban development and good governance. At a regional seminar on urban good governance and development organized by Niti Foundation in Lalitpur on Wednesday, Singh emphasized that urban areas should serve as hubs for culture, sustainability, and good governance, alongside being platforms for economic growth.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Singh highlighted the challenges facing the Kathmandu Valley, such as rapid urbanization, degradation of natural resources, and socio-economic disparities. He stressed the importance of inclusiveness, community participation, and the integration of local knowledge in urban development and governance.
Singh recalled the active role of community involvement in the reconstruction of Kathmandu following the Gorkha Earthquake in 2015, underscoring that such reconstruction was achieved through collaboration between the government and local communities. He further noted that Nepal prioritizes community participation in urban development, infrastructure access, resource management, and multilateral cooperation for urban development planning.
The Deputy Prime Minister also observed that local governments need to enhance their efficiency in urban planning technology to support these initiatives.