The long-awaited construction of the Jugadkhola Corridor has officially begun in Jumla. The project aims to revitalize the Jugadkhola River, which flows through Khalanga, the district headquarters. For years, the river has been heavily polluted, but now efforts are underway to clean and restore it.
Revitalizing Jugadkhola for a Cleaner Future
Chandannath Municipality is leading the initiative to transform the Jugadkhola into a clean, attractive, and eco-friendly landmark. The goal is to enhance the river’s beauty while creating a healthier environment for locals and boosting tourism in the region.
Ramadevi Khadka, Deputy Mayor of Chandannath Municipality, laid the foundation stone for the corridor project. She expressed her optimism, stating that the project would turn the river into a beautiful landmark.
“Once completed, the Jugadkhola will have crystal-clear water. It will be a breathtaking sight for both visitors and locals,” said Khadka.
Plans for additional tourism-related structures along the corridor are also in progress, with initial work commencing near the office of the Water Consumer Committee in Chandannath-5.
Budget Allocation and Development Plans
The project will take multiple years to complete. For the current fiscal year, the municipality has allocated a budget of Rs. 60 million. This funding will cover the construction of a three-kilometer section of the corridor.
Tek Bahadur Budhathapa, the Chief Administrative Officer of Chandannath Municipality, emphasized the project’s significance in promoting a clean and green environment in Jumla. The Cooperative Development and Building Construction Project in Jumla is also providing support for the initiative.
The Urban and Building Division Office in Jumla has already issued tenders worth Rs. 60 million for the first phase, with work set to begin soon.
Future Expansion and Additional Funding
The municipality has ambitious plans for the future of the corridor. In addition to the initial Rs. 60 million, a further Rs. 38 million will be allocated for the second phase of the project. Work for this phase is expected to begin shortly.
The municipality plans to install streetlights and CCTV cameras along the corridor, enhancing both security and accessibility. Additionally, resting areas will be built to ensure comfort for visitors. The corridor will feature a two-meter-wide walkway on both sides of the river, extending from the Water Consumer Committee Office to Malabhir in Chandannath-4. The construction of this stretch is expected to be completed within the current fiscal year.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, there are challenges ahead. Mayor of Chandannath Municipality, Raju Singh Kathayat, acknowledged that clearing unauthorized structures on public land within the corridor area will pose difficulties.
“There will be challenges in removing unauthorized buildings along the river. However, the municipality is committed to moving forward,” said Kathayat.
Official notices have already been sent to residents, requesting them to remove structures from public land. Some homes and sheds built in the designated area will need to be demolished.
“We have urged locals to clear these structures immediately,” Mayor Kathayat added.
Engaging the Community
Chandannath Municipality is also promoting local participation in maintaining the corridor. Residents are encouraged to avoid littering and help keep the river clean. Plans for community awareness programs are underway to educate the public about the benefits of a pollution-free Jugadkhola.
Environmentalists believe the project will yield long-term benefits, improving public health, supporting biodiversity, and fostering economic growth through tourism.
Long-Term Vision for the Corridor
Chandannath Municipality envisions the Jugadkhola Corridor as a model for urban rivers across Nepal. The project aims to create a safe, scenic space for walking, cycling, and relaxation.
If successful, the Jugadkhola Corridor could serve as a model for other municipalities working to restore and protect their water bodies.
With funding secured and construction underway, the people of Jumla are hopeful for a cleaner, more beautiful future for the Jugadkhola River.
For further updates on the project, visit Nepal Monitor.
