Home Minister Lekhak seeks ADB support for key infrastructure projects

KATHMANDU: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak held a meeting with Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director Arnaud Cossé at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Singha Durbar today.

During the meeting, Minister Lekhak expressed gratitude for ADB’s contributions to Nepal’s infrastructure development.

He emphasized key projects requiring ADB’s support, including the upgradation of the Gaddachauki-Kohalpur section of the East-West Highway, construction of the Mahakali Corridor road to enhance its role as a significant trade route, and the improvement of the Godawari-Dadeldhura road in Kailali.

Minister Lekhak also sought ADB’s assistance in constructing additional infrastructure around the Dodhara Chandani Dry Port, currently being built with Indian aid, to establish it as a model dry port.

The discussions further delved into ongoing projects in Sudurpaschim Province, such as the development of modern cities and the enhancement of religious and tourist infrastructure in the region.

Minister Lekhak urged the swift implementation of the ADB-commissioned tourism survey report from last year, which highlights the potential for tourism development in the area.

ADB Director Cossé assured the Minister that the matters would be discussed with higher authorities within ADB, promising a response in due course.