Kathmandu— Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Surendra Raj Pandey, met with Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Monday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singhadurbar, Kathmandu. The two leaders discussed issues related to intergovernmental relations and coordination, focusing on implementation of provincial laws, delegation of rights, land acquisition, and infrastructure development. The meeting also addressed specific requests from the Gandaki Province government regarding key projects and resource management.

Focus on Infrastructure Development

Chief Minister Pandey specifically requested Prime Minister Shah’s assistance in facilitating the construction of the Postal Highway along Chitwan National Park, spanning from Dumkibas to Triveni in Nawalpur district. This request highlights the province's prioritization of infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and economic opportunities within the region.

Discussions also covered broader infrastructure concerns and potential areas for collaboration between the federal and provincial governments.

Resource Management and Conservation Areas

The leaders discussed bringing forest areas within the Annapurna Area Conservation Project and the Manaslu Conservation Area Project under the purview of the province government. Chief Minister Pandey advocated for granting local levels the rights to collect, manage, and utilize river mining resources from these two conservation areas, signaling a desire for greater provincial control over natural resources.

The conversation aimed at balancing conservation efforts with local economic development.

Intergovernmental Coordination

A central theme of the meeting was improving coordination between the federal government and Gandaki Province. Chief Minister Pandey emphasized the need for facilitation in implementing laws passed by the province, while also requesting greater delegation of rights to provincial authorities.

Prime Minister Shah responded by stating that the federal government would coordinate necessary policy decisions during law-making processes.

The meeting signifies ongoing efforts to strengthen intergovernmental relations and address key development challenges within Nepal. Further coordination between the federal and Gandaki Province governments is expected on the discussed issues.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.