Parliamentarians urge govt to address farmers’ woes, pollution issues

KATHMANDU: Lawmakers in House of Representatives on Monday urged the government to take immediate action to resolve pressing public issues, including shortages of agricultural supplies, rising pollution, tourism management and delays in appointments to public bodies.

Speaking during the parliamentary meeting, MPs Achyutam Lamichhane, Indira Rana Magar and Anushka Shrestha drew the government’s attention to issues directly affecting citizens across the country.

MP Lamichhane stressed the need to ensure timely availability of fertilizers, seeds and agricultural equipment for farmers during the peak planting season.

He warned that delays in fertilizer supply could reduce agricultural production and deepen frustration among farmers, putting the agriculture sector itself at risk.

“Farmers are facing shortages of fertilizers, seeds and essential agricultural tools during the crucial farming period,” he said. “The government must guarantee easy, affordable and timely access to agricultural supplies needed for cultivation.”

Meanwhile, MP Indira Rana Magar raised concerns over worsening air pollution in Jhapa district, claiming that asphalt production linked to the Asian Highway project has been operating inside residential areas despite repeated complaints from locals.

She urged the government to immediately relocate the facilities, saying pollution-related illnesses, including cancer, have become a growing concern in the area.

Rana Magar also called for stronger government intervention in the management of the Patan Industrial Area, alleging that large industries operating in a zone originally designated for cottage industries have caused health problems among residents.

Lawmakers also emphasized the need for the government to strengthen tourism infrastructure and avoid delays in appointing capable officials to key positions.

MP Anushka Shrestha said Nepal urgently requires effective leadership and strong institutional structures to promote tourism more efficiently.

She also urged the government to speed up public service delivery and make citizen-focused governance more effective.