UML MP urges dialogue on Pathibhara Cable Car dispute

KATHMANDU, Jan 29: CPN-UML lawmaker Yogesh Bhattarai released a 19-point statement on the Pathibhara Cable Car construction dispute.

He presented his views during a press conference in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

He said that authorities initiated the construction of the Pathibhara Cable Car in Taplejung after completing the legal procedures at the federal, provincial, and local levels.

Similarly, he urged the protesting side to hold talks with the committees formed by the Koshi Province government and the federal government to resolve the issue peacefully.

These are Yogesh Bhattarai's 19-point statement:

1. The federal, provincial and local governments completed the legal procedures, and Pathibhara Devi Mukhumlung Cable Car Pvt Ltd has started the construction of the cable car in Pathibhara, located in Taplejung.

2. Political parties active in Taplejung district and elected representatives from all three levels are in favor of the cable car being built.

3. After the proponents of the cable car construction began advancing the work, an unpleasant incident occurred at the construction site on January 25.

4. Pathibhara is a famous religious and cultural site in Nepal, as well as a naturally beautiful tourist destination.

5. Every year, a large number of devotees and pilgrims from various parts of Nepal, as well as from regions in India such as Sikkim, Darjeeling, Assam, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, visit the site.

6. According to the data provided by the Pathibhara Area Development Committee, nearly 300,000 pilgrims and tourists visited Pathibhara last year, and this number has been steadily increasing every year.

7. Pathibhara is regarded as a symbol of power and the goddess is revered by all ethnic groups, including Khas-Arya, Limbu-Rai (Kirant), Gurung, Tamang, Sherpa, Magar, Newar, and particularly Hindus, Buddhists, and Kirant followers. It is a shared site where people of diverse faiths and beliefs show equal devotion and trust.

8. The economic foundation of Taplejung district lies in water resources, tourism, and agriculture. Among these, tourism is the sector that provides quicker returns. Taplejung is rich in both nature and culture. The common belief among the people of Taplejung is that it should be developed as a tourist destination to utilize its potential for the economic transformation of the local community.

9. There is no doubt that the cable car is an ideal option for easy access to Pathibhara, which is located in a geographically remote area, with the aim of ensuring easy access for the elderly, children, and people with disabilities.

10. It is estimated that through the construction of the cable car and the promotion of Pathibhara's significance, up to 1 million pilgrims and tourists will visit Pathibhara annually. This is expected to create employment, boost economic income, market local products, develop business opportunities, and contribute to the overall prosperity of Taplejung.

11. Based on the MCH presented by the construction company, the project proposal approved by the state authorities, and the environmental impact assessment report, the operation of the cable car does not appear to undermine any religion, culture, or faith. The cable car station is located about 200 meters away from the sacred Kanchi Than and approximately 800 meters from the main temple of Pathibhara. There will be no hotels or restaurants constructed at the top of Pathibhara, and none will be allowed. A total of 2112 trees will be cut for poles and other necessary installations. The claim that 25,000 trees will be cut, as publicized, is entirely false.

12. We respect the concerns and worries expressed by individuals living in various parts of the country, as well as Nepali brothers and sisters residing abroad, regarding the cable car and hydroelectric projects to be constructed in Taplejung. We extend our gratitude and, with respect, request everyone to acknowledge that the leadership of Taplejung is capable of making decisions regarding the development, construction, and other necessary actions for the district, based on the consensus of the people of Taplejung.

13. I express my sorrow regarding the incident that took place on January 25, 2025. I wish for the quick recovery of the injured, including the police inspector, as well as the officers of Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and civilians. I also request the Nepal government to make effective arrangements for the treatment of the injured.

14. I urge the construction company to continue the Pathibhara Cable Car project smoothly and to allocate the social responsibility fund. Additionally, I request the government to arrange a further budget for the preservation and promotion of local culture, including the construction of the Mukkumlung Park and Museum, as well as to initiate various activities for the advancement of religion and culture.

15. I respect the right to oppose and disagree in a democracy. However, it must be peaceful and respectful. The solution to the problem must be sought through dialogue and discussion. Activities that incite tensions and disrupt social harmony benefit no one. Therefore, I urge the protesting parties to withdraw their strike and shutdown programs, request the government to release the detained individuals, make arrangements for the treatment of the injured, and immediately initiate talks to resolve the issue.

16. It would be appropriate to form an all-party committee, with representation from the protesters, under the leadership of the local government to manage the economic funds, such as the social responsibility fund, revenue, and local taxes, received from the cable car company. Additionally, a separate committee should be formed to monitor the cable car construction, ensuring that the process is participatory and transparent.

17. The cable car company should announce free services for senior citizens above 70 years of age, children under 10, and people with disabilities in Taplejung. There should be a provision for affordable shares for the affected local population. Local people from Taplejung should be given priority in employment opportunities. The company should offer a 50 percent discount on cable car fares for Taplejung residents and focus on improving local education, health, and employment.

18. I would like to express my gratitude for the promptness shown by the Honorable Home Minister and the Chief Minister of Koshi Province in addressing the issues related to the Pathibhara Cable Car construction. I sincerely appeal to the protesting parties to engage in dialogue with the committees formed by the Koshi Province government and the federal government to peacefully resolve the issue.

19. I sincerely appeal to all representatives, the administration, and all sisters and brothers to move forward unitedly for the overall development of Taplejung. I urge everyone to maintain social unity and harmony, and I appeal to all concerned to practice restraint and patience.