Provincial capitals see rapid urban growth

Hetauda has transformed into a bustling city since becoming the capital of Bagmati Province. Once a modest marketplace just seven years ago, Hetauda’s streets are now alive with activity, establishing it as a key destination in the province. Although it previously served as the headquarters of the Central Region, it hosted only a handful of regional offices. With the advent of federalism and its designation as the provincial capital, over five dozen government offices have been established. The surge in traffic has also posed a challenge for the traffic police on major roads.

The hospitality sector in Hetauda has flourished. Numerous hotels have opened, and the city is emerging as a desirable destination. The population is steadily increasing due to internal migration. Hetauda has also become an educational hub, attracting students from the Tarai region.

Healthcare services have improved significantly. Hetauda Hospital, now recognized as a referral center, boasts an impressive new building and enhanced services. The Madan Bhandari Institute of Health Sciences is producing skilled health professionals from the city. Hetauda also shows promise in sports development, with a stadium constructed in Gauritar to host international events.

Several roads now connect Kathmandu to Hetauda, and the Madan Bhandari Highway has transformed the eastern part of Hetauda and Makawanpur. The dilapidated Janakpur Cigarette Factory has been repurposed, and the provincial government has beautified the Janaki Temple. Permanent government structures have been erected, making Janakpur not only a religious destination but also a center for education and development.

Biratnagar, the capital of Koshi Province, was traditionally known as an industrial city. Since becoming the provincial capital, it has grown into a vibrant marketplace. The presence of provincial offices has increased the population density, although permanent provincial infrastructure is still lacking. Roads, healthcare, and education sectors have seen some improvements, including the upgrading of Koshi Hospital. Industrial expansion and new business centers have added to the city’s energy.

Pokhara, long a tourist favorite, has flourished further as the capital of Gandaki Province. The opening of an international airport has boosted domestic tourism. While permanent provincial structures are still under construction, significant progress has been made in urban development and tourist-friendly infrastructure. The city’s cleanliness and aesthetic appeal have improved. With its smart city initiative, the number of hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses has grown. The provincial government has also made efforts to conserve Fewa Lake and has declared Pokhara the tourism capital of the province. Additionally, Gandaki University now attracts students from 53 districts.

In Lumbini Province, Deukhuri in Dang has emerged as a growing city after being designated the provincial capital. The planned development of physical infrastructure has begun in earnest. The Provincial Infrastructure Authority is driving urban development based on a master plan. Urbanization has started to take root in the traditionally agriculture-based region, and the government is working toward an eco-friendly, green capital. As a new capital in a relatively undeveloped area, Deukhuri presents an opportunity to build a well-organized city from the ground up.
Birendranagar, the capital of Karnali Province, serves as a hub for neighboring districts. Road development is underway, and a provincial stadium is being constructed in preparation for the 10th National Games. Urban settlement development is progressing rapidly. The city is becoming both an educational and residential destination, increasing population pressure. With the pace of urbanization accelerating, property prices and rent have risen. The establishment of higher education institutions has further boosted its profile.

Dhangadhi, capital of Sudurpaschim Province, has also grown significantly. Key roads have been upgraded, and the Nepal-India border gate has been streamlined. Administrative infrastructure is being developed, and Dhangadhi is becoming an educational hub, bolstered by the presence of Sudurpaschim University. Trade with India has intensified, and the construction of residential and commercial buildings has picked up pace. The provincial government has launched special programs targeting women’s empowerment and youth development. Godavari in Kailali has been declared the province’s permanent capital.

 

US seeks to weaken global development finance efforts, UN document shows

According to a draft document obtained by Reuters, the United States is attempting to weaken a UN treaty intended to assist developing nations in addressing financial and climate change issues. In preparation for the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in June, the document describes suggested changes to the global financial system, such as those pertaining to credit ratings, taxes, and subsidies for fossil fuels.

The United States opposes these amendments and seeks to eliminate references to "climate," "gender equality," and "sustainability." It also intends to replace a request to "reform the international financial architecture" with softer language about enhancing its resilience.

The US delegation claims that the document is excessively comprehensive and challenges the "ever-widening definition of sustainable development." It also opposes the United Nations influence over institutions like as the World Bank and the IMF, arguing that they should remain independent, Reuters reported.

These positions reflect a broader “America First” approach that resists global coordination on climate and development issues.

OpenAI maintains nonprofit control after restructuring reversal

OpenAI has reversed plans to reduce its nonprofit parent’s control over its for-profit arm, after backlash and a lawsuit from co-founder Elon Musk.

 Although the goal of the planned change to a public benefit corporation (PBC) was to increase funding, there was a chance that this would compromise the nonprofit's control, Reuters reported.

The decision may jeopardize OpenAI's original goal of creating artificial intelligence for the good of humanity, according to critics. CEO Sam Altman affirmed on Monday that the nonprofit will continue to have complete authority over the governance of the business, according to Reuters.

While OpenAI plans to restructure its for-profit operations in order to generate funds and remain competitive in the AI market, the nonprofit will continue to oversee its direction. Altman emphasized that the current governance paradigm will not change.

 

Weather to remain partly to generally cloudy across the country today

The country now is under the influence of westerly and local winds. 

The Meteorological Forecasting Division shared that there was a partial impact of water vapour-rich winds coming from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian sea. 

The weather, according to the Division, will be partly to generally cloudy throughout the country this afternoon. 

Light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at a few places of the hilly region and at one or two places of the rest of the country. 

There are chances of light rain and snowfall in some places of the mountainous and hilly regions of the country. Similarly, the weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of the country, including Koshi, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim Provinces tonight. 

Light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at a few places of Koshi, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim Provinces and at one or two places of rest of the provinces.