Nepalgunj Chamber Urges Government to Start Direct Nepalgunj–Delhi Flights

The private sector in Nepalgunj has asked the government to start direct flights between Nepalgunj and Delhi, saying this long-awaited route would help increase trade and tourism in the region.

On Sunday, Tanka Dhami, President of the Nepalgunj Chamber of Industry and Commerce, submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Sushila Karki through Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal. Dhami said the private sector has been requesting this flight route for more than ten years.

He explained that direct flights to Delhi would boost local trade, industry, and tourism, and added that the airport already has the necessary infrastructure. He urged the government to take policy and practical steps to launch the flights without delay.

Finance Minister Khanal said the current government has limited capacity to make major decisions. He explained that the government was formed under special circumstances and cannot act freely. Since a new government will be formed after the March 5 elections, he said the current government has only three months left and does not want to take actions that could disturb politics or affect election preparations.

Abdul Wahid Mansuri, a central member of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, also asked the government to reduce customs duties, saying Nepali traders are losing out due to growing smuggling.

Dhami added that a lot of customs revenue is lost when goods are imported through Rupaidiha and stressed the need to stop such losses.

The Chamber submitted a 21-point memorandum that included various demands and recommendations for the government.