The Solar Street Lights Program, an extension of the Ujyalo Kathmandu that installed solar street lights during the SAARC Summit in November 2014, was launched on February 13 but is still to receive go ahead from the government."If the government grants permission to go ahead, process to install the solar lights in the major parts of the capital city will start within two weeks," said Uttar Kumar Regmi, Chief of the Department of Physical Development and Construction at the KMC.
"We have submitted all the necessary documents to the government. Once approved, KMC will initiate bidding process for selecting service providers for installing the solar street lights."
The lights will be installed in 35 areas of the capital city at the cost of Rs. 800 million. Of the total budget, the state will invest 60 per cent while the KMC will bear 25 per cent and 15 per cent will be contributed from public funds.
"We want to make our city beautiful and safe. The lights will enhance its beauty and make it safer for its residents." added Regmi.
Tapping into the sun