The private sector has formally urged the government to approve direct flights between Nepalgunj and Delhi, emphasizing the potential boost to trade, industry, and tourism in the region. On Sunday, representatives of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Nepalgunj, submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Sushila Karki through Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal, highlighting the need for immediate government action.
Decade-Long Effort for Direct Air Connectivity
Speaking at the memorandum submission event, Tanka Dhami, President of FNCCI Nepalgunj, stressed that the business community has been advocating for a Nepalgunj–Delhi direct flight for over ten years.
“Direct air connectivity is crucial to mobilize the trade, industrial, and tourism sectors of the region,” Dhami said. He further mentioned that the necessary infrastructure has already been developed and called on the government to take policy and implementation measures to make the flight operational.
Government Response: Short-Term Limitations
Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal clarified the government’s current position, citing political and temporal limitations. He noted that the present administration has only three months remaining and that political conditions have restricted its ability to implement new initiatives.
“While we fully support the idea, it is not feasible for the current government to undertake this task at this time. We will, however, ensure that future administrations can consider it after the Falgun 21 House of Representatives election,” Minister Khanal stated. He also emphasized that the government will avoid any actions that could destabilize political processes or affect election preparations.
Customs Concerns and Business Challenges
The memorandum also highlighted challenges faced by traders due to customs issues and smuggling. Abdul Wahid Mansuri, Central Member of FNCCI, urged the government to reduce customs duties on imported goods, pointing out that smuggling and inconsistent regulations have put Nepali entrepreneurs at a disadvantage.
President Dhami further elaborated that goods imported via Rupaidiha often face significant customs leakage, resulting in economic losses for legitimate traders. He stressed that controlling such leakages is critical for protecting the local business environment.
21-Point Memorandum Submitted
The FNCCI Nepalgunj submitted a 21-point memorandum, covering a range of issues from air connectivity and trade facilitation to customs management and regional infrastructure development.
The memorandum highlighted that direct flights between Nepalgunj and Delhi would not only enhance business opportunities but also promote tourism, strengthen cross-border economic ties, and support regional growth. The federation called for both policy-level decisions and concrete implementation steps to expedite the process once the new government is formed after the elections.
Private Sector’s Call for Action
Business leaders reiterated that the region is ready to benefit from improved air connectivity. Infrastructure at Nepalgunj Airport, including runway facilities and terminal services, has been upgraded to meet operational requirements.
Dhami emphasized that timely government action could transform Nepalgunj into a regional hub, facilitating smoother trade and enhancing Nepal’s economic linkages with India. The private sector also urged that smuggling controls and customs reforms be implemented concurrently to maximize the benefits of new air services.
While the government cited current constraints, FNCCI Nepalgunj remains hopeful that the incoming administration post-Falgun 21 elections will prioritize the implementation of the direct Nepalgunj–Delhi flight. With both trade and tourism sectors advocating strongly, business leaders believe that improved air connectivity will play a pivotal role in regional economic development, reduce logistical challenges, and promote Nepalgunj as a strategic gateway to India and beyond.
