Finance Minister Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat has announced plans to develop Pokhara as a transit point for tourism. Addressing the 23rd annual general meeting of the Pokhara Tourism Council, Minister Mahat revealed that Pokhara would be developed as a transit point connecting Mustang, Lamjung, Chitwan, and Lumbini.
He informed the gathering about the substantial investment made by the government at international airports, saying, “The country has made significant investments for the promotion of tourism, but we haven’t been able to reap the benefits yet.”
Minister Mahat emphasized the need for further improvements in the tourism sector and highlighted the challenge of generating returns from the investments made without having any expectations. He discussed how the recent international crises, such as wars, earthquakes, COVID-19, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have adversely affected the country’s revenue.
Acknowledging the economic slowdown, he pointed out that the recent economic downturn caused by earthquakes and COVID-19 had been observed in a unique manner. He stressed that everyone should adapt to their circumstances and find ways to thrive despite the challenges. He also mentioned that Pokhara’s tourism industry has become a hub for economic activities.
Minister Mahat emphasized the effective utilization of capital expenditure, timely implementation, and the completion of three-year plans by the government, besides highlighting the importance of air travel for the growth of international tourists. He also noted that the SAGA Airport in Kathmandu is an essential asset for international tourist growth.
