DOTI, Feb 26: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Prem Bahadur Ale reaffirmed his commitment towards development and promotion of the Khaptad Area, a protected area stretching across Bajhang, Bajura, Achham, and Doti districts.
Minister Ale made the commitment during an on-site visit of Khaptad and Dipayal Airport in Doti district today.
Situated at 3,500 meters above sea level, the Khaptad Area is home to 567 types of vegetation, medicinal herbs, and 260 species of birds and other wild animals. The high hill area has Tribeni Dham, Nagdhunga, Khaptad Swami Ashram and 22 meadows.
Khaptad will be turned into Khaptad Development Trust: PM Dahal
Calling for cooperation from all quarters to develop and promote Khaptad Area, he opined that if the Khaptad area and Badimalika areas are developed, it could help change the face of Sudurpaschim Province.
Dubbing these areas as incredible natural gifts, he viewed that these areas could attract more tourists round the year if roadways and other infrastructures are in place.
He opined that cultural, religious, and tourism development of these areas are important to develop Sudurpaschim Province and put it on the world's map.
During the inspection, the Minister assured to put in place all necessary infrastructures to welcome more tourists.
Tourism Minister Ale shared that the construction of various development projects is underway in different places like Khaptad Area, Badimalika, Ramaroshan, Saipal, Shaileshwori, Ugratara, Malikarjun and Ninglashaini, among other tourist destinations in the Sudurpaschim.
Furthermore, Ale informed that the federal government has already allocated a budget for a fast track to be built from Khutiya in Kailali district to Bajhang.
Minister Ale said that his ministry is effortful to revitalize the tourism sector hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic for the past two years.
(RSS)
