Where is the Dhangadhi-Atariya industrial corridor?

Dhangadhi: The Far West region of Nepal has been promised various development projects and initiatives in the policy and program of the financial year 2077/78 BS. These include the establishment of industrial zones in Dudejhari of Lamki-Chuha municipality of Kailali and Daiji of Kanchanpur, as well as the creation of business special zones in Lalpur-Haraiya of Godavari municipality, dry ports in Kanjbhog of Kanchanpur-Dodhara-Chandani, exploration of phosphorite in Baitadi and Bajhang, and the construction of industrial villages.

However, despite these promises being made repeatedly in previous policy and program documents, little to no progress has been made in their implementation. The lack of concrete action has left the residents of the Far West feeling neglected and unable to experience any real development.

Even though these development plans are included in the policies and programs at all levels of government, from the federal to the local, they are often simply copy-pasted from previous years without any real effort to ensure their implementation. This failure of the leaders and elected representatives has resulted in a lack of progress and a sense of disappointment among the people.

The policies and programs also include plans for the Pancheshwar Multi-Purpose Plan, construction of the Khutiya-Dipayal Tunnel Road, complete electrification of the Far West, and other initiatives. However, these have also faced similar obstacles in terms of actual implementation.

Economists argue that even a small budget, if aligned with policies and programs, can contribute to the development of the region. However, there have been many instances where budgets have come in contradiction to the policy program.

The education sector, in particular, has become unstable after federalism, with disputes over which level of government has the authority. Moreover, the development of agriculture, hydropower, tourism, and job creation have also been neglected, leaving the region behind in terms of awareness, development, health, and education.

Overall, it is evident that promises alone cannot lead to development. Concrete actions and proper implementation of policies and programs are essential to bring about real progress and improve the lives of the people in the Far West region of Nepal.