The Pokhara Tourism Council has launched a new initiative aimed at creating a tourism-friendly environment in the city’s prime Lakeside area, one of Nepal’s most visited tourist destinations. The campaign is designed to ensure that visitors feel completely safe while moving around, while increasing coordination and partnerships among key stakeholders.
According to Taranath Pahari, Chairman of the Pokhara Tourism Council, the campaign involves close collaboration between local authorities, including the Baidam Ward Police Office, Tourism Police, Metropolitan Police, ward representatives, and tourism-related organizations. Regular discussions and coordination meetings have been organized to ensure the smooth implementation of the initiative.
Monitoring and Coordination
The Council has established a dedicated WhatsApp group comprising representatives from tourism businesses, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies. The group will serve as a communication platform to report any undesirable activities or disturbances in the Lakeside area. “If anyone witnesses activities that may disrupt tourist safety or the friendly environment, they can immediately report through the group or to the relevant authorities, and prompt action will be taken,” said Jeevan Raj Sapkota, Secretary of the Council.
The initiative also includes on-site monitoring, particularly during the evening hours, with officials from all relevant departments conducting regular checks to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.
Addressing Safety and Hygiene Concerns
Apart from general safety, the campaign focuses on maintaining food hygiene and cleanliness in the Lakeside area. Street vendors, mobile food sellers, and small roadside businesses will be monitored to ensure that they meet the standards necessary to maintain a safe and pleasant experience for visitors. During the initial phase, authorities have been instructed to warn and educate vendors, while repeated violations could lead to legal action in coordination with the concerned authorities.
The Council also plans to utilize QR codes in various locations throughout the Lakeside area to educate visitors and businesses about rules, regulations, and tourism-friendly practices. This measure aims to create a sustainable culture of safety, cleanliness, and hospitality, while making the area more attractive to international and domestic tourists.
A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism
Chairman Pahari emphasized that this campaign is part of a broader effort to position Lakeside as a model tourism destination that balances safety, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. By actively involving tourism entrepreneurs, law enforcement, and local representatives, the Council seeks to ensure that the area remains a vibrant, organized, and tourist-friendly hub throughout the year.
“With growing tourist footfall in Pokhara, particularly in Lakeside, safety, hygiene, and regulations must be prioritized,” Pahari noted. “Our goal is to create a tourism environment where visitors feel secure, businesses operate responsibly, and the area’s charm is preserved for future generations.”
The Pokhara Tourism Council has assured that this campaign will continue on a long-term basis, with regular updates, workshops, and stricter monitoring procedures planned to maintain the city’s reputation as Nepal’s Tourism Capital.
