3 private sector groups urge all not to vitiate investment environment
They warned that such actions could hinder infrastructure development and discourage investment.
KATHMANDU: Three prominent private sector organizations have called on all parties to refrain from disrupting the country’s investment climate.
They urged the protesting groups to immediately cease their demonstrations, expressing concern over the ongoing agitation regarding the construction of a cable car project for the tourism development and promotion of the Pathibhara (Mukkumlung) area.
In a joint press release, the Federation of Nepali Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), and Nepal Chamber of Commerce highlighted that protests in the Koshi province over the cable car project have significantly impacted daily life, disrupting education, economic activities, and social routines.
They warned that such disruptions could undermine the investment-friendly environment necessary for the country’s infrastructure development.
The statement emphasized the private sector’s crucial role in the nation’s economic growth, noting the substantial investments made in industries such as trade, banking, energy, agriculture, tourism, and communications.
These sectors, along with infrastructure and services, contribute significantly to the nation’s prosperity.
The organizations urged authorities to address the issue seriously, stressing that continued disruptions could send a negative message to both domestic and foreign investors, deterring investment in the country’s development.
The private sector organizations also highlighted their significant investments in the tourism industry, which have created numerous direct and indirect employment opportunities.
They explained that the proposed Pathibhara (Mukkumlung) cable car project is designed to improve accessibility for all visitors, including senior citizens and children.
The project also aims to promote the region’s religious, cultural, and adventure tourism, as well as stimulate the growth of local agriculture and handicraft industries.
The statement further asserted that the project had been approved by local authorities and communities, and that any interference—whether internal or external—was an attempt to hinder the region’s development.
The private sector organizations warned that the protests, if allowed to continue, could jeopardize the broader investment climate in Nepal and discourage future investment.
They called for dialogue to resolve the issue and urged local communities, authorities, and stakeholders to embrace the development efforts positively, ensuring smooth progress of the Pathibhara (Mukkumlung) cable car project.
In separate statements, FNCCI’s provincial chapters in Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali also voiced their concern and urged a constructive approach to the issue.
