Submit your Article

The government is preparing to enter into bilateral air services agreements with three nations, including Switzerland, with the aim of expanding Nepal's international flight connectivity.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Nepal has already signed bilateral air services agreements with 40 countries, with Australia being the latest addition. The government has already completed the paperwork to add Switzerland, Indonesia, and Rwanda to this list.

Civil Aviation Division Chief and Joint Secretary at the Ministry, Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane, said they anticipate the draft of the agreement to be endorsed by the Council of Ministers soon. Afterward, they will determine the location and timing for the formal signing of the agreements.

It may be noted that Nepal and Switzerland principally agreed for a bilateral air connectivity during the 41st Session of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assembly held in September 27 – October 7, 2022 in Montreal, Canada. Both countries observed the signing of the MoU to this regard, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CANN).

Nepal is also exploring the possibility of MoUs for air connectivity with various other nations, including Indonesia.

Bilateral aviation agreements are considered vital instruments of a nation's foreign diplomacy, and the government is promoting such agreements. Nepal's international flight service system already includes over 20 destinations.

These agreements not only enhance structural relations with respective countries but also strengthen bilateral ties. Furthermore, it's important to note that these agreements are based on the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Lamichhane added.

Likewise, the government is in the process of reviewing agreements with Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This review has been proposed by Kuwait and the UAE themselves.

As part of its policies and programs for the current fiscal year, the government has announced its commitment to establishing new aviation relationships and expanding international air services.

Electric vehicles are a new rage all over the world where fossil fuel-run vehicles are rapidly becoming a thing of the past. Given ever-increasing petroleum prices and a large carbon footprint that the conventional vehicles leave behind, not to mention increasing costs of running a fossil fuel-based economy, Nepal is also not immune from this switch to the EVs.
Against this backdrop, SERES—an EV brand born in the USA, mastered in China, proven in Europe—has entered Nepal, where a couple of other brands already have their presence.

Devendra Gautam of ApEx had a free-wheeling conversation with Jeevan Jung Shahi, director of LRR Group, the authorized distributors of SERES for Nepal.   

SERES took part in the NADA Auto Show 2023. How was SERES’ performance? What word best describes the customers’ response?

The customer response was absolutely fantastic, there was an incredible crowd and they were crazy about SERES. NADA Auto 2023 was an incredible success for SERES, with an outstanding booking of almost 334 units. 

Any special feature that you think gives SERES EVs an edge over competitors? 

The 190mm ground clearance is a feature that is really unmatched, this is really one of the many features exclusive to SERES in the SUV EV segment. 

Nepal’s roads are rough and climatic conditions quite challenging. Do you expect a smooth journey ahead for SERES, EVs in particular? 

Navigating challenging road conditions and extreme climates can be a significant hurdle for electric vehicles in Nepal, but I expect that with SERES' design and durability, these obstacles can be overcome. SERES manufacturers design their vehicles to withstand rough road conditions and challenging climates, incorporating features such as reinforced suspensions and a higher ground clearance of 190mm in SERES. These enhancements, along with all-wheel-drive systems, can greatly enhance a vehicle's ability to handle uneven and rough terrain. 

The national economy is not so healthy. Do you still think this was the right time to enter the Nepali market? 

Entering a new market, especially one facing economic challenges like the Nepali market does now, requires careful consideration and a well-thought-out strategy. It’s time for EVs globally, a boom time in EV technology. So, this was the perfect time for LRR GROUP in EV Automobiles to enter the Nepali market.

What is the price range of SERES EVs? What special features do they entail? What financing options are available? What about-after sales services?

The price range of SERES EVs can vary depending on the model and features. Currently, we have two models in the market: One is the comfort variant, and the other is the premium variant, priced at Rs 5m and Rs 5.3m, respectively. The premium variant offers additional features like a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, wireless charger, sunglass holder, and front auto-heated seats.

Certainly, customers can avail themselves of EMI options with a 20 percent down payment over a span of seven years, at a competitive 10.49 percent interest rate on SERES vehicles.

LRR Motors is committed to providing roadside assistance and mobile service options. I want to assure the SERES family that we will deliver the best after-sales services, including maintenance, warranty coverage, and support for SERES vehicle owners.

Nepal’s petroleum addiction seems to be getting worse. A country with formidable hydropower potential imports petroleum products from a monopoly market through South Asia’s first cross-border petroleum pipeline, the Motihari-Amlekhgunj pipeline. Plans are underway to extend the pipeline to Chitwan and then to Kathmandu. Another cross-border project--the Siliguri-Charali pipeline is also on the cards. Given such a scenario, how friendly are government policies vis-a-vis the EVs?

Yes, there is a 69-km cross-border petroleum pipeline project, running from the state-run Indian Oil's terminal in Motihahari in north Bihar to Nepal Oil Corporation’s Amlekhgunj depot. The project was initially scheduled for completion in 2020 but is still in progress. We hope that once this project is finished, it will significantly improve the situation compared to today.

Like many countries, Nepal faces environmental challenges, including air pollution and climate change. Promoting EVs aligns with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat pollution. Nepal possesses significant hydropower potential, making it an ideal source of electricity for EVs. Reducing reliance on petroleum imports through the development of EV infrastructure can enhance energy security.

Expanding EV infrastructure such as charging stations constitutes a key component of government policies aimed at supporting EV adoption. Plans to extend petroleum pipelines may not necessarily conflict with EV policies if the government considers EVs as a complement to traditional transportation.

Does Nepal have adequate infra to switch at least partially to a transport system that is EV-driven?

Nepal has made efforts to develop the infrastructure necessary to support EVs, but it is still in the early stages of development. The extent of EV infrastructure in Nepal can vary by region, and it's important to note that progress may have occurred since that time. To assess the current state of EV infrastructure in Nepal and its adequacy for a partial transition to an EV-driven transport system, it is advisable to check with local authorities, electric utilities and EV industry stakeholders for the most up-to-date information. The development of EV infrastructure is often an ongoing process, and governments and private sector entities may continue to invest in this area to facilitate the adoption of electric mobility solutions. 

The government has started setting up charging stations for electric vehicles, primarily in urban areas like Kathmandu. However, the number of charging stations is relatively limited compared to the demand. Nepal’s significant hydropower potential can serve as a source of clean energy for EVs, making it an ideal candidate for a transition to electric mobility. Spreading awareness among consumers about the benefits of EVs and addressing concerns like range anxiety are essential for a successful transition.

Does the LRR Group have some dreams and a long-term vision for our country? Dreams like developing indigenous EVs in Nepal itself, together with young minds, innovators, engineering/technical institutions, investors and the government? 

Yes, we have dreams for our country and a vision. LRR Group is still striving to contribute to government efforts and policies as an electric vehicle (EV) business in a proactive way to support the growth of the EV industry and promote sustainable transportation. 

Box

Here are several ways through which your EV business can contribute to government initiatives: 

Advocacy and lobbying

Join or support industry associations or groups dedicated to electric vehicles. These organizations often advocate for policies that benefit the EV industry.

Collaborate with these associations to collectively engage with government officials and policymakers to voice your concerns and offer insights. 

Policy recommendations

Develop well-researched policy recommendations that can support the growth of the EV market. These recommendations can cover areas such as incentives, charging infrastructure, emissions standards, and tax policies.

Present these recommendations before relevant government agencies, legislators, and policymakers. 

Education and outreach

Organize events, workshops, and seminars to educate government officials, the public, and potential customers.

At least 10 persons were injured when an electric jeep carrying teachers heading towards Kathmandu from Sindhuli to take part in the teachers’ protest met with an accident at Boharetar in Sunkoshi Rural Municipality-3 along the BP Highway on Friday.

Of the injured, three persons are in critical condition, DSP Chiranjibi Dahal, spokesperson at the District Police Office, Sindhuli, said.

The injured have been identified as Kumari Chalise of Kamalamai-6, Kamala Ghimire of Kamalamai-5, Rajan Karki of Tinpatan-10, Saroj Thapa of Kamalamai-6, Mukunda Thapa and Bhuwan Thapa of Kamalamai-1, Babita Devkota of Kamalamai-4, Garki Basnet of Banepa-10, Bishnu Dhakal of KMC-6 and his son Nischal Dhakal.

The injured have been taken to the Dhulikhel Hospital for treatment.

Police suspect that the accident was caused due to overspeeding.

Further investigation into the incident is underway, said police.

Two persons escaped from a juvenile center in Birgunj on Friday.

Juvenile Center Chief Tika Krishna Kafle said that Amarkant Thakur of Sarlahi and Pandav Yadav of Saptari escaped from the reform center at around 2 am today.

The center is holding a total of 126 prisoners.

Kafle said that the duo fled from the prison by cutting the fence wire.

DSP Kumar Bikram Thapa, spokesperson at the District Police Office, Parsa said that they are searching for both of them.

Three police personnel and 11 inmates were injured when a clash broke out between two groups at the juvenile center on September 12.

A person was stabbed to death during a gang fight in Damak of Jhapa district on Friday.

DSP Khagendra Prasad Rijal of the District Police Office, Jhapa said that the deceased has been identified as Govinda Limbu (38) of Chulachuli Rural Municipality-3 of the district.

The clash occurred among the youth of Haat Khola, Damak-7, Kumal Chowk, Damak Municipality-1 and Chulachuli Ilam at around 4 am today.

They had consumed alcohol the whole night together at a hotel near Kumal Chowk in Damak-1.

In the meantime, they had a dispute which turned into a clash.

Sanam Rai (25) of Damak-7 attacked Limbu with a knife.

Limbu, who sustained critical injuries in his neck and shoulders, was rushed to the Damak-based Lifeline Hospital. But doctors pronounced him dead on arrival, DSP Rijal said.

Rai along with two others have fled the scene after the incident. DSP Rijal said that they are searching for them.

Earlier on July 24, 2019, Bikram Limbu (18) had lost his life in a gang fight at Damak Municipality-1.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, who is currently on an official visit to China since September 23, is leaving for Chengdu from Mansarovar in China's Tibet this morning.

PM Dahal is scheduled to take a flight from Ngari Gunsa Airport at Mansarovar to Lhasa Airport at 9:45 am local time and then will fly to Chengdu from Lhasa.

The PM would reach Chengdu at 14:30 local time this afternoon.

In Chengdu, the PM is scheduled to visit the Panda Breeding Centre.

This evening, the PM will meet the Secretary of Communist Party of China (CPC), Sichuan Province Committee, Wang Xiaohui.

Secretary Wang will host a dinner in honor of PM Dahal.

The PM had arrived in Lhasa from Chongqing city on Wednesday and visited Mt Kailash and Mansarovar Lake on Thursday.

PM Dahal held bilateral meetings with different leaders in Lhasa and also visited Potala Palace and other sites in Lhasa.

The PM is scheduled to return home from Chengdu on Saturday.

Lalitpur City FC signed national football team defender Ananta Tamang as their marquee player for the highly anticipated Nepal Super League 2023.

Tamang, a celebrated Nepali professional footballer, has made an indelible mark in the realm of the sport.

Renowned for his exceptional prowess as a defender, Tamang's journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

Born on 14 January 1998, his remarkable career includes stellar contributions to Church Boys United as Captain and serving as a stalwart in the Nepal national team.

Lalitpur City FC's reveal of Ananta Tamang as their marquee player is a testament to the club's relentless pursuit of excellence, reads a statement issued by the Lalitpur City Football Club.

His signing heralds a new hope in Nepali football, strengthening the club's defense with his wealth of experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment.

The news of Tamang joining Lalitpur City FC has reverberated through the football community, generating a wave of excitement and anticipation. His presence promises to elevate the team's performance and inspire emerging talents to strive for greatness, according to the statement.

In a noteworthy achievement, Tamang recently clinched the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament award at the prestigious Qatar Airways Martyr's Memorial A Division League 2023, a testament to his exceptional skills and commitment to the sport.

He is also the first Nepali player to play in the Indian Super League, India’s top tier league.

‘A country is dead if it is full of anarchy’.

The quote above is not a self-invented nugget of wisdom. It is the reply from Yudhishthir to one of the many questions from a Yakshya, a semi-divine protector of a pond brimming with water located in the middle of a forest. 

Close by the pond, Yudhishthir finds four of his younger brothers (Bhim, Arjun, Nakul and Sahadev), out in the woods turn by turn as per his instructions to quench their thirst, lying unconscious. Apparently, better senses prevail over Yudhishthir. He somehow suppresses an acute thirst and is patient enough to answer Yakshya’s questions, a far better alternative than facing the archer’s wrath like his brothers, who, it turns out later, tried to head straight into the pond to sate themselves instead of heeding the protector’s warning and bothering to answer his questions. 

Yakshya fires many no-nonsense questions at Yudhishthir and the latter answers them all very wisely. 

The quote in the beginning of this piece is part of Yudhishthir’s answer to one of the questions about death. The full reply from Yudhishthir, considered a manifestation of Yamaraj, the god of death, goes: A person facing extreme poverty might be considered dead; a country is dead if it is full of anarchy.

The Q & A session, detailed in the Mahabharat, has a happy ending. Pleased with Yudhishthir’s wisdom, the Yakshya ultimately brings the fallen Pandavs to life and they all get to quench their thirst to their hearts’ content. 

The Yudhishthir-Yakshya Q & A session is long over, but it is quite relevant even in the federal secular democratic republic of Nepal of this day and age. 

At present, Nepal seems to be in the midst of an ever-lasting turmoil. Kathmandu (its nerve centers like Maitighar Mandala the vicinity in particular, which lie quite close to the seats of the three organs of the state) has been the hotbed of protests of all sorts. Recent days have seen protests demanding amended citizenship provisions, justice for loan-shark victims, teachers’ protests against the government’s indifference toward their demands and a days-long stand to make Kathmandu Metropolitan City fulfill the demands of street vendors.   

Even as a myriad groups continue to show their respective strengths on the streets and bring the Nepali state to its knees, the latter appears too helpless to deal with multiple crises gripping the country. The economy is not in the pink of health. The rule of law has become a chimera. There is a growing feeling in the society that influential people can get away with grave crimes in this country.

The transitional justice process is not making much headway. People are losing faith over the government’s ability to curb corruption by bringing high-profile corruption cases to their logical conclusion. 

Anarchy reigns supreme and the country is on sickbed. The onus is on the government to bring the country back to health before it’s too late.