Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Badri Prasad Pandey announced ongoing government initiatives to expand and enhance Bharatpur Airport, aiming to boost tourism and improve connectivity. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Heritage Marathon organized by the Rotary Club of Chitwan as part of Bharatpur’s Visit Year celebrations, Minister Pandey affirmed the government’s readiness to equip the airport for night flights, enhancing its capacity to handle increased tourist traffic.
“The airport’s expansion will significantly increase tourist flow,” Pandey remarked, emphasizing the central role of Bharatpur in advancing Nepal’s tourism industry. He also praised the marathon event, noting its contribution to promoting tourism, fostering unity, and highlighting the importance of health.
Bharatpur Metropolitan City Mayor Renu Dahal highlighted the economic impact of Bharatpur’s Visit Year, revealing that 55 promotional events have already been held to boost tourism. Additional speakers included Bharatpur Deputy Mayor Chitrasen Adhikari and program coordinator Rajan Piya.
The International Heritage Marathon, a 14-kilometer race, started from Ghailaghari in Bharatpur Metropolitan-23 and concluded at Telouli in Meghauli. According to coordinator Piya, the marathon attracted 250 participants and was a significant cultural event showcasing Bharatpur’s scenic routes.
In the men’s category, Sanjay Shrestha won first place, completing the course in 45 minutes and 16 seconds, followed closely by Rajendra Tamang and Ratna Bahadur Khatri. Dhir Bahadur Budha took fourth place. In the women’s division, Prajita Shrestha took the title, completing the distance in 56 minutes and 11 seconds, with Fulmati Rana, Asha Rana, and Rajya Laxmi Rana securing the next positions. Cash prizes of NPR 30,000, NPR 20,000, NPR 10,000, and NPR 5,000, along with certificates and trophies, were awarded to the top finishers in each category.
Source: RSS
