Kathmandu, February 5
The government has agreed to temporarily halt the construction of the upper station of the Pathibhara cable car in Taplejung’s Mukkumlung. Following this agreement, the “No Cable Car Group” has decided to call off its protests.
A six-point agreement was reached on Tuesday between the government’s negotiation team, formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the group opposing the cable car project.
The agreement states that construction of the upper station will be suspended for now, with further discussions scheduled for February 9.
Additionally, the government has committed to providing free and effective medical treatment for those injured during the protests. A probe will also be conducted into the events of January 25, with legal action to be taken against those found guilty.
Furthermore, authorities have agreed to release all individuals arrested during the protests without any conditions. In return, the Mukkumlung conservation group has decided to lift the indefinite transportation strike. The two sides will meet again on February 9 for further discussions on disagreements surrounding the cable car project.
Key Points of the Agreement:
- Suspension of construction work on the upper station of the Pathibhara cable car, with a detailed discussion to follow on February 9.
- Government commitment to providing free and effective medical treatment for injured protesters.
- Investigation into the January 26 incident, with legal action against those responsible.
- Unconditional release of all arrested protesters.
- Withdrawal of the indefinite transportation strike imposed by the Mukkumlung conservation group.
- Further discussions on disputes related to the cable car project on February 9.
The agreement was signed by Prem Prasad Bhattarai, coordinator of the government’s negotiation team, and Saraswati Singak from the mediation committee.
The upcoming round of talks on February 9 is expected to bring further clarity on the future of the Pathibhara cable car project.
