FNCCI Urges Direct Nepalgunj–Delhi Flights to Boost Regional Development

Kathmandu: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal has called for urgent steps to establish direct flights between Nepalgunj and Delhi, saying the route would significantly contribute to the economic growth and connectivity of western Nepal.

Speaking at an all-party discussion organized by FNCCI Banke in collaboration with FNCCI Teku, Dhakal said the flights would benefit tourism, agriculture, and other sectors, linking Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces more closely with India. He urged that the agenda be prioritized during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s upcoming visit to India and expressed confidence that the initiative could be realized with joint efforts.

Dhakal highlighted Nepalgunj’s potential as the gateway to western Nepal, with infrastructure in place to attract tourists to sites like Lumbini, Bardiya, and Banke National Parks, as well as to promote cross-border events and weddings. He also stressed the need to ensure effective use of airports built with significant state investment.

Pointing to the private sector’s role in driving economic growth, Dhakal said FNCCI has pushed for policy reforms, leading to the amendment of more than 30 laws, and has launched a Nepal Public Limited company with Rs 10 billion in capital to mobilize domestic investment for infrastructure projects.

Former ministers, lawmakers, political leaders, civil society members, tourism entrepreneurs, and journalists attended the event.