Ravi Lamichhane pledges immediate and long-term measures to protect Chitwan market from Narayani erosion

Chitwan, November 6, 2026 — Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Ravi Lamichhane has pledged to move forward with immediate interventions and long-term plans to protect the market area from erosion by the Narayani River.

Speaking at a discussion with stakeholders at the Chitwan Chamber of Commerce and Industry after inspecting damage along the riverbank, Lamichhane said protecting lives, the market’s existence and historical significance, and the property of local business owners were the government’s immediate priorities.

He said he had informed the concerned authorities as soon as the chamber brought the risks facing the market area to his attention. A team had subsequently been mobilized to conduct the necessary assessments and prepare plans, and had already begun its work, he added.

Lamichhane stressed that planning should address both urgent interventions and long-term solutions. Citing the need for technical assessments, he also said relocating the market area could become necessary in the future. If that situation arises, he said, all stakeholders should participate in the decision-making process and reach a common understanding.

“Budget is secondary when it comes to saving people. The first priority is how people can be protected,” he said. “A clear plan is needed on what can be done immediately and what measures are required in the long term to protect people's lives, the market's history and the property of business owners.”