KATHMANDU, Aug 12: During a meeting with the visiting Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Foreign Minister Dr Arzu Rana Deuba emphasized the need for additional air routes between Nepal and India to improve connectivity. The discussion, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also covered topics such as bilateral relations, economic aid, and various projects.
Dr Rana highlighted the operational challenges faced by Bhairahawa and Pokhara airports, which currently depend on the Simara route for flights, and urged India to consider new routes through Nepalgunj and Mahendranagar. The meeting also addressed India’s plan to set up a quality testing laboratory for fruits and vegetables at the Nepal-India border.
New air-entry routes: India’s harmful dilly-dallying
Progress on the Pancheshwar Project was noted, with most issues resolved and the remaining matters to be handled by a technical group. Other discussions included water release from the Tanakpur Dam canal, flood control measures for the Badganga and Rapti rivers, and the Darchula bridge opening.
Both parties agreed to continue dialogue on trade and transportation. Dr Rana also thanked India for its support in rescuing victims of the Jajarkot earthquake.
