KATHMANDU, April 15: The Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, Masashi Ogawa, and former Education Minister and chairperson of the Himalaya Conservation Group (HCG) Nepal Dr Gangalal Tuladhar, inaugurated and handed over key of Kalleri Shelter-Community Center to the Consumer Committee of the center, Dhading on Thursday. 

According to the press statement issued by Embassy of Japan to Nepal the Government of Japan extended financial assistance of US$ 79,761 (Rs approximately 8.5 million) to the Himalaya Conservation Group Nepal under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP). 

The HCG, a Kathmandu-based NGO, worked with local residents and various community organizations to construct a one-story community center, which in case of emergencies, can be used as a shelter for the surrounding communities. “The center consists of a large hall, two storage rooms, a meeting room, an office, and toilets,” read the statement. 

During peak harvesting season it will be used as a collection center for agricultural products. It is expected that the center will help local residents in their income generation. “The Embassy of Japan in Nepal hoped the success of this project will benefit the earthquake affected local residents to fully recover as soon as possible and live their daily lives safely,” it added. The Japanese Embassy also expected enhancement of friendship between the peoples of Japan and Nepal through such supports.