Tourism Info Nepal

Culture and Tourism Boost: Government Committed to Sustainable Operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport

Culture and Tourism Boost: Government Committed to Sustainable Operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport

Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the sustainable operation of the Gautam Buddha International Airport. Speaking at an interaction program on Saturday, organized by the Siddhartha Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bhairahawa, Minister Pandey addressed concerns raised by local entrepreneurs, assuring them that international flights would not be halted.

Highlighting the strategic location of the airport in central Nepal and its proximity to the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini, Minister Pandey emphasized that the facility’s operation would greatly benefit passengers and boost tourism. “I am committed to visiting Bhairahawa twice a month to ensure the airport’s continuous and sustainable operation,” he stated.

He further elaborated on plans to integrate culture and tourism, saying, “With Lumbini and Pokhara close by, this airport is crucial for tourism and regional development. I am considering running my office from Bhairahawa itself to stay connected with operations here.”

Turning Lumbini into a Tourism Epicenter

Minister Pandey underlined the vision of making Bhairahawa a tourism hub centered on Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. He noted that the establishment of essential offices related to labor, visas, medical services, and manpower companies has already been approved, with decisions finalized in the month of Shrawan.

To ensure effective implementation, Minister Pandey announced plans to convene a Prime Minister-level meeting upon returning to Kathmandu. He assured stakeholders that concrete steps would follow to address the challenges and enhance the airport’s functionality.

Moreover, Minister Pandey expressed his commitment to developing Lumbini as a global tourism epicenter. He emphasized the importance of regular flights and the improvement of the Lumbini Development Trust to attract more visitors.

The government’s strong resolve to link culture and tourism through infrastructure like the Gautam Buddha International Airport is set to position Bhairahawa as a critical gateway for both domestic and international tourists.

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