Bikalpa an Alternative conducted Biratnagar Leader’s Circle Meet at Hotel Srikrishna, Biratnagar on 9th of August, 2023. The objective of organizing such meetings is to deliberate discussions between stakeholders on public policy issues and agendas of economic growth by forming a closed informal circle comprising decision-makers, private sector leaders, and civil society members to find solutions to the current problems.
The program was organized in the special presence of Mayor of Biratnagar, Mr. Nagesh Koirala and was chaired by the chairman of Bikalpa an Alternative, Mr. Besh Prasad Dhamala. Altogether, 32 The stakeholders and experts from various realms like business associations, tourism, education, health hotel associations, political parties and civil society members were gathered to discuss vital measures aimed at fostering economic growth and prosperity of Biratnagar. The event underlined the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and citizens in enhancing Biratnagar’s development. The event was moderated by Dr. Sandesh Das Shrestha.
The event commenced with a gracious welcome by Mr. Basanta Adhikari, who articulated the objectives of the dialogue. After then, Mr. Dependra Chaulagain (Director, Samridhi Foundation) introduced the topic and emphasized the importance of employing sensible economic measures. He pushed for a thorough investigation of subjects like the public procurement legislation, public-private partnerships, managing the informal economy, and incentivizing informal enterprises. His opening remarks established a pragmatic foundation for the discussions to follow.
Followed by that, Mr. Bhim Ghimire, President of CNI, Koshi province, expressed concerns about the state of Biratnagar at the moment. He lamented the deterioration of the city’s industry and its declining economic strength. His focus on finding solutions led to suggestions for the formation of an international-caliber stadium, a special economic zone, and vital transportation facilities like highways and train services. Ghimire envisioned restoring historic places and building cutting-edge infrastructure that would turn Biratnagar into a vibrant city.
In his remarks, the president of Morang Merchant Association, Mr. Naveen Rijal emphasized the significance of both basic and modern urban amenities. His emphasis on underground cable networks, street food culture, thriving nightlife, safety, and drainage stressed the importance of holistic advancement. After that, Dr. Gyanendra Karki, President of Birat Medical College and Teaching Hospital, emphasized the necessity for the government to take a more accommodating approach toward the private sector. He urged legislation that encourages the retention of local talent and fosters the development of an environment that is favorable to economic growth. His call for a secure and vibrant nightlife echoed the sentiment of fostering an inclusive urban culture.
Mr. Rajendra Raut, President of Koshi Province FNCCI stressed the importance of cleanliness and beautification, which improve the city’s general livability as well as its visual appeal. In order to accomplish these aims, he suggested using a public-private partnership model, which underlined the significance of cooperation between local government and business organizations. Then, Economist and Professor, P.K. Jha, emphasized that although Biratnagar’s physical infrastructure has only attained an OK level, its genuine strength resides in the area of software data. The city was acknowledged as a “city of knowledge” by the WTO, citing a Focus magazine from 2006 as evidence. Jha stressed the ability of the private sector to make money, but he pushed them to reinvest those earnings locally and with reasonable taxes that don’t unfairly burden the general populace. He also emphasized the significance of efficient traffic management. However, issues like the dearth of skilled workers and the urgent need for solid waste management must be addressed. Jha suggested building specialized places like parks and amusement centers to improve the city’s livability.
The president of CIM, Morang, Mr. Rakesh Surana stressed the importance of the tourist and healthcare industries for maintaining the economy. He suggested cutting the tax rate for visitors, enhancing labor regulations, and emphasizing the development of infrastructure and medical tourism.
The Secretary General of Morang Merchant Association, Mr. Anil Sarada noted the significance of tax equity and root cause analysis while recommending a system for collecting citizen suggestions. Similar to the existing forum, Bhabesh Shrestha, Hotel and Tourism businessman, requested that the municipality hold regular sector-specific discussions every one to two months. He called attention to the disorderly condition at the border that is inconveniencing visitors and said it needs to be addressed. In addition, Shrestha suggested building a museum to highlight Biratnagar’s historical importance as the first industrial centre of Nepal and the birthplace of five prime ministers.
The president of Hotel Association, Koshi Province, Mr. Rajan Shrestha suggested to promote sports tourism, wellness tourism, and nightlife to increase the allure of the city. Dr. Saroj Koirala, Executive Director of Koshi Province Investment Board, advised the city to discover its identity by concentrating on being transportation, commercial, and industrial hub linking China and India. Following that, Mr. Prem Suwal, President of PABSON Morang, commended the mayor’s efforts and advocated sector-specific conversations and a focus on cleanliness. He suggested building a science center and children-friendly parks. Mr. Sagar Thapa, Municipal Chairman, CPN UML, offered prospects in sports and politics while pointing out Biratnagar’s status as a center for education and medicine.
The role of the municipality’s economic strength in advancing Biratnagar’s growth was emphasized by Mr.Deepak Chapagain, Municpal President of Nepali Congress. He emphasized the value of fair taxes that people would be ready to pay and called for an easy way to pay taxes. In addition, Chapagain suggested building a 5-star hotel, a variety of businesses, conference spaces, and an IT sector hub.
At the end of the session, Mr. Nagesh Koirala, Biratnagar’s Mayor guaranteed kicking up focused conversations on many topics, using specialist committees to carefully research issues and put forth workable answers. He said, “We are ready to take the lead in a sector-wise discussion.” The municipality would take action after the sector-specific committees presented their conclusions, possibly even altering current laws if it is advantageous. As he indicated his willingness to advocate with relevant ministries, Mayor Koirala demonstrated his dedication to facilitating Biratnagar’s progress through cooperation and responsiveness.
The session ran for three hours. The chairman of the program, Mr. Besh Prasad Dhamala delivered his closing remarks and ended the session. As the event wrapped up, a united vision emerged: Biratnagar’s revival depends on tapping into tourism’s allure. With this shared determination, Biratnagar’s transformation into a tourism-driven economic hub seems attainable.
