CM Shah stresses conservation and proper use of infrastructure amid economic slowdown

Kailali: Sudurpaschim Province Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah has underscored the importance of conserving and properly utilizing constructed infrastructure, emphasizing that development should be need-based and justified.

Speaking at the inauguration of a multi-purpose inclusive safe shelter in Tikapur Municipality-7, Kailali, CM Shah said that conserving infrastructure is a shared responsibility. He criticized the misuse of public funds when large-scale projects are implemented without addressing actual needs. “It is necessary to pay attention to the needs while making plans,” he said. “When excessive amounts are spent in unnecessary areas, citizens cannot be satisfied with the structures built based on needs.”

He warned that the provincial government would no longer prioritize infrastructure projects in the upcoming fiscal year's budget unless their necessity and sustainability are clearly established. “The provincial government will prioritize them only if the justification of the plan is confirmed,” he stated. “We have taken a policy to ensure the budget after determining who will take responsibility for the conservation of the plans made and after they are utilized.”

Addressing the broader economic context, CM Shah noted the global economic slowdown and projected a potential budget shortfall of two to three billion rupees in the current fiscal year. “As budget resources are decreasing, our needs are increasing. This is also a very challenging situation,” he added, calling for unity among development partners to meet the challenge.

CM Shah also appealed for preparedness, warning of the high risk of floods and inundation in the Terai districts and earthquakes in the hilly districts of the Far West Province.

The newly inaugurated building was constructed at a cost of Rs 12.181 million under the Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Project. The project was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan; World Vision Japan; World Vision International Nepal; and the Conscious Society for Social Development (CSSD). The building is intended to serve as a shelter during floods and other disasters.