Siddharthanagar (Bhairahawa) – Industrialists and businesspersons in Rupandehi have demanded that the Gautam Buddha International Airport be brought into full and regular operation immediately.
Despite the completion of construction of the airport located in Bhairahawa, Rupandehi, it has not yet been able to operate at its full capacity even after a long time.
Tourism entrepreneur Amit Gupta stated that although more than Rs 100 billion has already been invested in the tourism sector in the region, the expected results have not been achieved, putting the investment at risk.
Areas such as Lumbini, Devdaha, Ramgram, Tilaurakot, and the surroundings of the Rohini River are important destinations associated with history, religion, and Buddhist civilization.
Although it was expected that the operation of an international airport would play a significant role in promoting these destinations, tourism promotion in the region has not progressed as expected due to the lack of effective initiatives.
President of the Siddhartha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Netra Prasad Acharya, said the private sector believes the new government to be formed will play an effective role in promoting tourism and operating the airport.
He added that the region has the potential to develop as a major center of Buddhist civilization, history, and religious tourism, expressing confidence that once the airport becomes fully operational, it will not only boost tourism but also bring significant changes to overall economic activities.
Similarly, President of the Nepal Customs Agents Association, Madhu Prasad Panthi, stated that Rupandehi is one of Nepal’s key industrial areas. Therefore, the new government should pay special attention to creating the necessary infrastructure and environment to help export locally produced goods to international markets.
He noted that expanding the export of goods produced in the Bhairahawa Industrial Corridor would further strengthen the industrial sector. According to him, effective airport operation and proper border management would help expand international trade.
Representatives of the private sector also expressed hope that once a stable government is formed, it will take concrete initiatives to create an investment-friendly environment, promote tourism, expand industries, and develop infrastructure.
They further stated that once Gautam Buddha International Airport begins regular operations, it will not only enhance tourism development in the Lumbini region but also boost industrial and commercial activities in Rupandehi.
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