Private sector urges halt to strikes in Koshi Province over Pathibhara Cable Car project

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s three major private sector organizations have expressed serious concerns over the ongoing strikes in Koshi Province, calling for an immediate halt to disruptive activities against the Pathibhara (Makkumlung) cable car project. The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), and Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) jointly issued a statement warning that the strikes are negatively impacting the investment climate, economic growth, tourism industry, and infrastructure development in Nepal.

The private sector bodies stated that Nepal’s economic stability and foreign direct investment (FDI) rely on a business-friendly environment, but continuous protests and strikes harm investor confidence. They emphasized that Koshi Province is a key region for economic activities, and disruptions in infrastructure projects such as the Pathibhara cable car would hinder tourism growth, employment generation, and revenue collection. The statement highlighted that the strikes have paralyzed education, business, transportation, and daily life, affecting thousands of people in the region.

“It is well known that the private sector plays a crucial role in Nepal’s economic development. Investments in industries, trade, banking, energy, agriculture, hospitality and tourism, information technology, and infrastructure development have significantly contributed to the nation’s progress. However, the recent protests targeting infrastructure projects are sending a negative message to domestic and international investors. We urge all stakeholders to ensure that developmental projects move forward smoothly without any obstacles,” the statement read.

The private sector representatives stressed that billions of rupees have already been invested in Nepal’s tourism and hospitality sector, providing employment to thousands of people. The Pathibhara (Makkumlung) cable car project is expected to provide a safe, fast, and comfortable transportation alternative for pilgrims and tourists, especially benefiting the elderly, disabled individuals, and children. The cable car is also anticipated to promote religious tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism, as well as boost local businesses, agriculture, and handicrafts.

The organizations noted that local governments and residents have supported the cable car project, recognizing its importance for economic prosperity and regional development. However, external interference and attempts to obstruct the construction process have created frustration within the private sector. The statement mentioned that such disruptions are not only targeting a single project but also harming Nepal’s infrastructure development, foreign investment prospects, and overall economic growth.

The private sector representatives also called for a dialogue-based resolution, urging local communities, relevant authorities, and stakeholders to positively embrace development projects. They emphasized that Nepal’s business environment must remain investment-friendly to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and promote sustainable economic growth.

Meanwhile, FNCCI’s provincial chapters in Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali Provinces issued separate statements highlighting concerns over the ongoing strikes. They stressed that Nepal’s post-COVID economic recovery requires collaboration between the government and private sector, and disruptions in major projects would delay national development efforts. The statements warned that continued strikes would create an uncertain investment climate and discourage foreign investors, multinational corporations, and business groups from expanding their operations in Nepal.

The private sector organizations further pointed out that numerous tourism infrastructure projects across Nepal have created thousands of jobs and contributed significantly to national revenue through tax collection. They urged the government to take necessary actions to prevent any further disturbances that could harm the country’s economic stability, industrial growth, and tourism sector development.

The business community also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nepal’s economic growth through public-private partnerships, technology-driven industries, and tourism-friendly policies. They called for all stakeholders to work together to create an environment conducive to sustainable business development, infrastructure expansion, and employment generation in Nepal.