Why did the Metropolitan City deny permission for Kotihom in Pokhara?
In the 42nd meeting of the municipal executive held on Feb 2, the proposal was rejected, and a decision was made to cancel the lease agreement with Nepal Trust.
KATHMANDU: Pokhara Metropolitan City has decided not to grant permission to Human Service Foundation Nepal to operate a Kotihom in the Lakeside area.
In the 42nd meeting of the municipal executive held on Feb 2, the proposal was rejected, and a decision was made to cancel the lease agreement with Nepal Trust.
According to the municipality, the Lakeside area, a highly busy tourist hub, was deemed unsuitable for the operation of a Kotihom due to security concerns.
As a result, the municipality has requested Nepal Trust to immediately cancel the agreement.
Lakeside, especially the area near Phewa Lake, is one of the main tourist attractions in Pokhara, frequented by a large number of domestic and international visitors.
The municipality argues that hosting such a long-term program could increase crowding and negatively impact tourism businesses.
Furthermore, the municipal executive has accused Human Service Foundation of illegally cutting down sacred trees, including Peepal trees, in the protected historical Chautari area for the Kotihom project.
The municipality has decided to request legal action from the Division Forest Office, Kaski, against those involved in damaging biodiversity and the environment.
The municipality has also issued a directive to all ward offices and relevant departments, emphasizing that prior approval from the municipality is mandatory for organizing religious and cultural events, ensuring strict compliance with this regulation.
