Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Chet Narayan Acharya, has announced that the provincial government is making significant efforts to streamline public service delivery to support the regular operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini. During an interaction program held on Thursday, titled Sustainable Operation, Investment, and Possibilities of Gautam Buddha International Airport, the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of efficient services such as visa issuance, labor permit approvals, and health checkups in ensuring smooth airport operations.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the commencement of international flights from Gautam Buddha International Airport had unlocked numerous opportunities for the local community, particularly in sectors like tourism, business, and international trade. Acharya appealed to the federal government to grant the province more authority in handling procedural tasks related to visa issuance, labor permits, and other administrative functions that would ease the flow of international passengers and enhance the airport’s overall efficiency.
“As the gateway to the world, Gautam Buddha International Airport is a pivotal asset for Lumbini and the surrounding regions,” said Chief Minister Acharya. “We are committed to fostering an environment that supports both the smooth operation of the airport and the growth of the local economy. This includes ensuring the timely delivery of public services that are essential for the functioning of international air travel.”
One of the key points raised by the Chief Minister was the enabling environment for investment that has emerged with the airport’s operation. Acharya encouraged investors to place their confidence in the region, assuring them that the provincial government was ready to amend any existing laws that might be hindering investment. “We will create a favorable atmosphere for investors and businesses to thrive in Lumbini,” he said.
In addition to the focus on investment, the Chief Minister also expressed plans to enhance the tourism sector in Lumbini. He assured the public that the province government would work to organize and facilitate tours for visitors coming to explore the Lumbini Tourism Circuit, ensuring that tourists could make the most of their time in the area. Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an increasingly popular destination for religious and cultural tourism.
The event, organized jointly by Nepal Chamber Lumbini and several other local organizations, saw the active participation of entrepreneurs and the business community. Business leaders present at the event echoed the sentiment of optimism surrounding the airport’s international operations. They noted that the launch of international flights was a game-changer for the tourism industry, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
With Gautam Buddha International Airport now functioning as a key international transit hub, stakeholders are hopeful that Lumbini will see a surge in both domestic and international tourism. The new connectivity promises to bring not only visitors to Lumbini’s cultural and religious sites but also opportunities for greater regional development and foreign investment.
As the government and the business community continue to work in tandem, the future of Lumbini’s tourism and economic landscape looks promising, with the international airport serving as the cornerstone of growth.
