Kathmandu: National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal has emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental standards during infrastructure development. During an interaction with representatives from concerned bodies on the draft report of Policy-Level Problems and Suggestions related to National Parks, organized by the Public Policy and Delegated Legislation Committee under the National Assembly, Chair Dahal stated, “I urge the bodies concerned to comply with environmental standards as we have been victimized from natural disasters including landslide, flood, unseasonal rain and drought for not following the standards.”
According to National News Agency Nepal, Chair Dahal stressed that preserving nature would facilitate the preparation of long-term plans for future generations. He highlighted the necessity for protecting forests and wildlife and adhering to environmental standards in infrastructure development. The Chair warned that failing to balance development and conservation could lead to catastrophic natural disasters in the country.
“Today, we are facing the severe impacts of climate change. Also, we should not forget these issues while carrying out development projects,” Chair Dahal added. He cautioned against the overexploitation of natural resources, which could result in disastrous consequences for Nepal.
Furthermore, Dahal reminded the audience of past disasters in regions such as Chure, Melamchi, and the flooding experienced in the Kathmandu Valley during the last rainy season. He advocated for development projects to achieve lasting results by adhering to both national and international standards while preserving forests, wildlife, and nature.
Chair Dahal concluded by pointing out the necessity of implementing the sustainable development framework as a mandatory measure in carrying out development projects.