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To those of us living here, Kathmandu can feel a bit mundane, especially when the sun doesn’t shine and there seems to be so much dust in the air. Which is why we at ApEx were surprised when a friend returned from India, having cut her visit short by two weeks, claiming she’d rather spend that time in Nepal. She kept raving about ‘beautiful Kathmandu’ and how she’s never been bored here. Some of the things she mentioned were such simple things that we were stunned to have overlooked them or perhaps even taken them for granted. So, we asked random strangers what they liked to do in the city and compiled a list of five of the most common answers. Here are some foreigner-backed suggestions on how to have some fun in Kathmandu even on days when you feel like there’s nothing to do.

Go pub crawling in the city

Kathmandu is home to some of the world’s best pubs and bars. We aren’t the ones making this claim but tourists we spoke to in the city swear that Kathmandu has the nicest watering holes and restaurants. They are all kinds of places too. If you want a quiet one to nurse a beer, you’ll find plenty of cozy ones to choose from. If loud music is your jam, then you will be spoilt for choice. There’s even a separate scene for cocktails if that is more your thing. Bars like Bitters and Co. in Lazimpat and Barc in Tripureshwor serve unique cocktails that you haven’t tasted anywhere. The good thing is that most of these places aren’t very pricey either. They are good value for money. But if you are on a tight budget, then Kathmandu caters to that too. There are many places in Thamel that have amazing happy hour deals throughout the week where you can buy one get one or even get discounts on bulk orders. Most bars and pubs have a nice selection of food too. So grab your friends and indulge in a delightful Margarita or a crowd-favorite titaura cocktail this weekend.

Shop for trinkets in New Road

New Road has always been a place Kathmandu residents head to for shopping, and for all kinds of shopping too. From dry fruits and spices to fabrics and shoes, you will find everything you need at New Road. No wonder it’s so crowded during the festivities and on holidays. Despite markets cropping up in all parts of town, people still like to go to New Road to get what they need. Things just feel better and cheaper there. And in recent times, New Road has gotten a makeover, thanks to the brilliant mayor Balen Shah who is determined to turn the city into the picturesque place it was always meant to be. With roadside parking off limits, the place looks wider and cleaner. Shopping is also a better experience as you don’t keep dashing into people every two minutes. Take this as a perfect opportunity to shop for things like accessories, belts, bags, and clothes among other things at the ever growing market. Don’t stick to the main streets and explore the hidden alleys as well—there are lots of shops selling curios and various other things for super affordable prices. You can get bags for as little as Rs 500 and earrings for Rs 100.

Get a relaxing massage 

If this rising pollution has you concerned and you don’t want to spend a lot of time outdoors but still don’t want to be holed up at home, we recommend you spend a day at the spa. Could there be a better way to pamper yourself and feel relaxed and rejuvenated than a spa session that includes a full body massage, a head oil, and perhaps a sauna session too? A German couple we bumped into in Kathmandu confessed that they have been getting massages every week since they have been in Kathmandu three weeks ago. They made it a point to never visit the same establishment twice as there are just so many places to choose from, they said. So far, every place they have gone to has been good and they haven’t had a bad experience. The cost is more or less the same with some popular ones charging slightly more for the services. Many spas even offer full day packages that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Ayurvedic treatments like Shirodhara and Abhyanga are also available these days and these can be therapeutic and relaxing.

Discover public spaces

One of the joys of living in Kathmandu is discovering public spaces that feel like mini excursions in themselves. Basantapur is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike and, on any given day, you will find many people just lazing around, sipping tea or iced coffee, while strolling through the market or sitting on one of the many benches or temple steps. But apart from Basantapur, there are many other places in Kathmandu, including but not limited to temples and religious sites, that can serve as places of interest—where you can simply sit by yourself, meditate, or read a book if you are so inclined. These days, many communities have taken it upon themselves to create little parks of sorts in their area where people can hang out and spend some time outdoors. Watching people go about their days and do their own thing can be incredibly relaxing and rewarding. One of the most recommended things was a stroll in your area or some place new to discover hidden gems and alleys.

Enroll in a class to learn something new

Want to learn to make tiramisu or bake bread? Or maybe you want to sharpen your dancing skills?  Enroll in a random class to add some cheer to your days and pick up a skill along the way. There are just so many random classes and workshops being held in Kathmandu these days that you are sure to find one to suit your taste and mood. Dance classes seem to be really popular these days with many institutes offering drop-in classes for all forms of dance like hip-hop, classical, contemporary etc. Macrame training or jewelry making training are also offered by small businesses that want to expand beyond just selling their products and these can be neat things to learn if you are into art and crafts. Many shops that sell Thangka and other paintings in Thamel also take in students who are eager to learn how to paint for a nominal fee. All in all, if you want to learn something new, rest assured that there’s someone willing to teach it to you and you won’t have to put in regular hours either.

When I first moved to Kathmandu from Pokhara for my studies, everything felt new and overwhelming. Away from the warmth of home and my mother’s cooking, I longed for familiar flavors. Living on a student budget meant I couldn’t indulge in culinary luxuries every day, but there was one breakfast that became my solace: ‘Haluwa-swari’, ‘jeri-swari’, paired with ‘tato tato chiya’ (hot tea) and ‘piro aalu kerau tarkari’. It was a taste of comfort in a city that felt unfamiliar.

What is haluwa?

Haluwa is a sweet semolina pudding that is rich, buttery, and fragrant. Made primarily from semolina (suji), ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and milk or water, it’s flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts and dried fruits such as almonds, cashews, and raisins. The cooking process involves roasting semolina in ghee until golden brown, then adding sweetened milk or water and stirring until it achieves a thick, smooth consistency.

Haluwa’s luxurious texture and rich flavor make it a dish of celebration, often prepared during festivals, pujas, and special occasions. However, when paired with swari, it transforms into a humble yet indulgent breakfast. The slightly grainy texture of haluwa, combined with the flaky, crisp swari, creates a delightful contrast.

What is swari?

Swari is a flaky, deep-fried flatbread that resembles puri but is slightly thicker and less oily. Made from wheat flour, a touch of ghee, and water, the dough is rolled into small discs and fried until golden and puffy. Swari has a soft interior and a crisp exterior, making it an ideal accompaniment to both sweet and savory dishes.

In the context of haluwa-swari, the swari acts as the perfect vehicle for scooping up the rich, sweet haluwa. Its neutral taste balances the sweetness of haluwa, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Swari’s versatility also makes it an excellent companion for piro aalu kerau tarkari, demonstrating its importance in Nepali breakfasts.

What is jeri?

Jeri, known as jalebi in other South Asian cuisines, is a spiral-shaped, deep-fried sweet soaked in sugar syrup. Made from a fermented batter of all-purpose flour and yogurt, the mixture is piped into hot oil in circular patterns and fried until crispy. Once golden, the jeri is immediately immersed in warm sugar syrup, allowing it to absorb the syrup and become irresistibly sweet and sticky.

Jeri is often served alongside swari, creating the iconic jeri-swari pairing. The crispy, syrup-soaked jeri provides a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the flaky, neutral swari. This combination is both decadent and comforting, making it a favorite breakfast or snack for those seeking a touch of indulgence.

What is aalu kerau tarkari?

Aalu kerau tarkari is a spicy potato and green pea curry that embodies the essence of Nepali comfort food. Made with boiled potatoes and fresh or dried green peas (kerau), the dish is seasoned with turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and mustard seeds. A touch of garlic, ginger, and fresh coriander enhances its aroma and flavor.

This dish is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. The potatoes absorb the spices beautifully, while the green peas add a burst of sweetness and texture. When paired with swari, aalu kerau tarkari becomes a hearty and satisfying breakfast. Its spicy kick is perfectly complemented by a cup of hot Nepali tea, making it a favorite among students and workers alike.

The cultural significance

This breakfast combination of haluwa-swari, jeri-swari, and aalu kerau tarkari holds a unique place in the food culture of Kathmandu Valley. Rooted in the Newar community, it represents a blend of traditional flavors and modern-day convenience. While the Newars are renowned for their elaborate feasts and unique culinary practices, this breakfast showcases their ability to create balanced and wholesome meals that are both delicious and practical.

In the bustling streets of Kathmandu, small tea shops and eateries serve this breakfast to locals and visitors alike. It’s common to see people gathered around, sipping hot tea and savoring each bite of haluwa-swari or jeri-swari, often while engaging in animated conversations. For students and young professionals, this breakfast offers a sense of comfort and nostalgia, evoking memories of simpler times.

For many, this breakfast is not just about the food. It’s about the memories it carries. It takes one back to the early mornings in Kathmandu, the warmth of a bustling tea shop, and the camaraderie of friends. It’s a reminder of the small luxuries that brought immense joy during student life—a time when every bite was savored not just for its taste but for the connection it fostered.

As a student from Pokhara living in Kathmandu, the absence of home-cooked meals often made this breakfast a cherished ritual. It was more than just sustenance. It was a moment of solace and indulgence amidst the challenges of academic life. Even today, living far from Nepal, the thought of haluwa-swari, jeri-swari, and aalu kerau tarkari evokes a deep sense of longing and pride in the culinary heritage of Kathmandu Valley.

Why hasn’t this breakfast gone global?

While Nepali momo have gained international fame, this iconic breakfast has yet to make its mark globally. One reason could be the intricacy involved in preparing these dishes, especially the perfect swari and the syrup-soaked jeri. Additionally, the breakfast’s cultural context and deep-rooted connection to Kathmandu’s street food culture make it challenging to replicate the same experience elsewhere.

However, this also adds to its charm. The exclusivity of haluwa-swari, jeri-swari, and aalu kerau tarkari keeps it special, preserving its status as a beloved breakfast of Kathmandu Valley. For those who have moved away from Nepal, the nostalgia associated with this breakfast keeps it alive in their hearts, even if it is not readily available.

Haluwa-swari, jeri-swari, and aalu kerau tarkari are a celebration of Nepali culinary artistry and a testament to the rich food culture of Kathmandu Valley. For those who have experienced it, this breakfast is a cherished memory, a taste of home, and a symbol of simpler, happier times. While it may not yet have traveled globally like momo, its significance remains unparalleled for those who hold it close to their hearts.

The author is a London-based R&D chef

The trend of setting off firecrackers in celebration has not stopped in Kathmandu Valley during this Tihar festival despite the tight supervision of the security bodies.

Especially the youths let off fireworks in celebration during the Tihar festival.

It is said celebratory explosion of fire crackers is high in the inner-alleys than on the main streets and in the outlying areas of Kathmandu Valley this time.

The pace of exploding pyrotechnics has increased since Thursday evening when the Laxmipuja rituals were observed and it will likely continue today as well.

Sharan Sharma, a resident of Chandragiri in Kathmandu said exploding fireworks non-stop has caused sound pollution in the environment while it has also increased the risk of outbreak of fire. "I could hear the sound of explosion of firecrackers up until 12 pm. It was really disturbing. I could not sleep. I can hear the loud sound of firecrackers exploding even in the morning. I think the security agencies should make their monitoring more effective to check this trend," he said.

According to him, although there is the presence of the security personnel on the main streets and core areas in Kathmandu, their patrolling is only nominal in the inner alleys and the outlying areas in the Valley.

Sharma said the smuggling of firecrackers and letting off fireworks continues due to lax monitoring by police.

However, Nepal Police has claimed that it has upped security vigilance at all the 10 transit points of the Valley and intensified checking at various places with the goal preventing the smuggling and explosion of fireworks. Nepal Police central spokesperson Dan Bahadur Karki said security vigilance has been stepped up in view of the likelihood of increased gambling and explosion of firecrackers during Tihar.

He said the police will take under control and initiate legal action against anyone involved in such activities.

Spokesperson for Kathmandu Valley Police Office, Senior Superintendent Binod Ghimire said that the police has arrested and taken action against some people involved in fireworks on the charge of smuggling and letting off explosives.

Assistant Chief District Officer of Kathmandu, Anil Poudel, warned of legal action against anyone involved in hooliganism and disturbing public peace, decency and security by drinking alcohol and engaging in other unruly activities during the festival. 

It will take a few days for the monsoon to enter the Kathmandu Valley.

Currently there is an influence of the monsoon system in the eastern part of the country and the local and western winds as well as a low-pressure system formed around Bihar in the remaining part of the country.

Meteorologist at the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology Sanjeev Adhikari said there are slim chances of rain in the Kathmandu Valley today.

The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. The weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of the country including Sudurpaschim, Karnali and Koshi Provinces and fair in the rest of the country.

Light rain is also taking place at one or two places in Koshi Province. The weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and mainly fair in the rest of the country this afternoon.

Light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at some places of the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces.

The Meteorological Forecasting Division has predicted partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of Koshi and Gandaki provinces and partly fair in the rest of the country tonight.

Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is likely to occur at some places of the hilly regions of Koshi and Gandaki provinces.

The maximum temperature is expected to hover between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius.  

Kathmandu has always struggled to manage its waste. Hopes were pinned on the city mayor Balen Shah’s plans to segregate waste at source. But around 200 vehicles still dump garbage at Banchare Danda every day. Much of the collected waste—around 1,200 tons daily—ends up in the landfill. Those who work in waste management say Banchare Danda is fated to go the Sisdol way. What we now have is only a temporary respite to the city’s trash problems as the focus continues to be on dumping. 

However, experts say this could change if Nepalis become conscious of what they throw and how. Kiran Shrestha of Action Waste Pvt. Ltd. says the weight and bulk of trash have been steadily increasing as Nepalis toss things that needn’t be thrown away. Clothes, books, utensils, and electronics, among other things, are regular items in the trash Action Waste collects from its designated areas of Anamnagar and Seto Pul in Kathmandu.

On the surface, many people seem to have adopted eco-friendly lifestyles. Millennials increasingly favor brands that promote sustainability. Though the market for eco-friendly products is yet to become mainstream, there is no dearth of businesses that promote sustainability. Unfortunately, most consumers are buying and thus throwing more stuff as they try to switch to greener alternatives.

A passing trend 

“Sustainability has become a passing trend in Nepal and that’s worsening our trash problem,” says Anjana Malla, founder of Deego Nepal, a brand that provides eco-friendly alternatives for daily use items. Malla says there’s a lack of slow and responsible consumption. People easily tire of what they have and they want something new, even though old items work perfectly well. 

“If you are throwing away, say, a water bottle just because it’s made of plastic and getting a glass one in its place, you are creating more waste. That isn’t the principle of sustainability. That’s not being eco-friendly,” she says. What you can and should do is use what you have for as long as you can and then invest in eco-friendly options when you have to replace something. 

But that is not what is happening. Rupak Parajuli, the owner of Hempko, a business that provides sustainable and eco-friendly products, says there are very few conscious consumers. Most buy things on a whim. He believes this mindset, where the emphasis isn’t on the durability of a product but rather on its attractiveness, is the reason behind the increasing volume of waste.

It’s not unusual for people to have multiples of everything. We buy things as they look attractive or they are cheap. Most of these items often sit unused in forgotten corners of our homes. The products expire or the novelty wears off and we get rid of them. Parajuli says we are driven by materialistic aspirations. The more you have, the more you want, and the more you eventually throw away. 

Intention-action gap 

“We blame the government for our inefficient waste disposal system but we must first look at our own problematic behavior,” says Parajuli. We look for an easy way out, choosing to replace something rather than repair it. We want newer models of items that we already have. It doesn’t help that the market is saturated with products of all kinds. Parajuli adds that people are aware of the importance of leading a sustainable lifestyle and the intent is there too but there is a gap between intention and action. 

Nitesh Sharma, founder of Dhaaso, an upcycling company, says people like the idea of being eco-friendly and sustainable. But they also prefer the fine finish of factory-made products and the convenience of disposable items. Dhaaso was launched eight years ago and Sharma laments that it is still difficult to educate people about the need to upcycle to keep something from being sent to the landfill. 

“Our customers know Dhaaso upcycles and that our products are made from discarded materials. It can never be as good as mass-manufactured products. But we’ve still had five order cancellations in the past week,” says Sharma, adding that there’s a disconnect between ideals and aspirations. 

As Nepal imports most things, fixing them is sometimes impossible. The required parts aren’t easily available. This also contributes to a lot of waste. At the moment, there is enough scrap in Kathmandu junkyards to last 20 to 30 years, says Sharma. Buying locally made products could change this but people tend to prefer either branded goods or cheap Chinese knockoffs. 

Kushal Acchami of Samsara Creation says we need a comprehensive approach to waste management, one that highlights the necessity of reusing what we have to serve different purposes. Manu Karki, founder of Eco Sathi Nepal, says people aren’t being creative with household items which is why every slightly damaged piece makes its way to the dumpster. 

“You can use a chipped ceramic jug or a mug as a planter. You can repurpose an old bottle into a vase. You can turn bits of fabric into pot holders,” she says. But people either don’t have the time or don’t want to put in the extra effort. “The result is a use-and-throw culture that doesn’t align with the principles of sustainability,” adds Acchami. 

The way out 

Nepal lacks the resources for large-scale recycling. There are some companies, like Doko Recyclers and Khalisisi, that provide recycling facilities but they don’t handle large volumes of waste. Raghavendra Nahto, co-founder of Doko Recyclers, says his company handles less than a percent of the waste Kathmandu generates daily. In the past five years, says Mahto, little has changed in the way Kathmandu manages its waste. 

Reducing waste at source is the only way to tackle the growing problem of waste management, he says. He believes we need a national-level campaign to make people aware of the implications of their wasteful behavior. Parajuli, on the other hand, thinks programs in schools and colleges on the importance of being eco-friendly can bring slow change in the way we shop. “We need to have more conversations on sustainability and how we can incorporate it into our current lifestyle. We need a movement,” he says. 

Three basic ways to embrace sustainability 

1. Use what you have 

According to Karki of Eco Sathi Nepal, many people think being eco-friendly means not using plastic. So, they get rid of plastic bottles and containers. The basic principle of sustainability is to prolong the life of what you have. Plastic, she adds, isn’t the villain here. Our mentality that we must get rid of them anyhow is the problem. 

Giving away what you don’t need instead of putting it in the dustbin can also help, says Malla of Deego Nepal. “We can donate the things we don’t need if they are in good condition. After all, one man’s trash could be another man’s treasure,” she says.  

2. Don’t buy single-use items

Disposable cups, water bottles, plates, and straws are all very convenient to use but they create a lot of waste. Malla says people these days use disposable plates and cutlery even when hosting parties at home. Restaurants too are wasteful. Most of them have tie-ups with various water bottling companies and serve mineral water instead of regular tap water. It generates a lot of unnecessary plastic waste at the end of the day. “Individuals and businesses both need to be mindful of this. Unfortunately, most businesses are purely commercial and not very ethical,” she says. 

3. Be a conscious consumer  

Before buying anything, ask yourself if you need it. Oftentimes, we buy stuff as we are bored or they look appealing. But a new notebook isn’t going to change your life. Neither is a new bag going to significantly uplift your ensemble. So, consider your purchases. When you inevitably have to replace something, look for eco-friendly alternatives. 

“Shopping local is one of the ways in which people can embrace sustainability. When you buy products that are made in Nepal you are already reducing your carbon footprint,” says Parajuli of Hempko.

Indra Jatra, the biggest festival of Kathmandu Valley, is being observed by worshiping Indra, the God of rains, on Thursday.

This festival is celebrated especially in the three districts of the Kathmandu Valley, and Dhulikhel and Dolakha. The annual traditional festival begins on the Bhadra Shukla Chaturdasi of Nepali month, Bhadra. It is an eight-day long festival.

The festival begins with the erection of a sacred wooden pole called Lingo with flags on its top at Hanuman Dhoka, the historic place of Nepal.

During the festival, chariot processions and typical cultural songs and dances are performed.

The erected pole with the flag is called 'Indradhwojotthan'. On the bottom of the pole, Lord Bhairav is worshiped.

The Indra Jatra festival is taken as the celebration after conquering the enemies.

The wooden pole is brought by performing tantric acts from a jungle of Nala in Kavre district.

The pole is made holy with various rituals at Bhotahiti, Kathmandu.

When the pole is erected, different cultural dances including Bhakkunach, Mahakalinach, Lakhenach, Dasavatarnach and Pulukisinach are performed in the city.

The government has also announced a public holiday today in Kathmandu Valley to celebrate the festival.  

Tootle, the pioneering ride-sharing platform in Kathmandu valley, has announced its return with a dynamic new management team and a host of exciting improvements. 

“After a brief hiatus, Tootle is back in business, reinvigorated and ready to redefine urban mobility with its revamped app and enhanced services,” said the company. “Under the banner of new leadership, Tootle is committed to delivering an unparalleled ride-sharing experience that seamlessly blends convenience, efficiency, and affordability.” 

With an eye toward revolutionizing how individuals traverse the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the reimagined Tootle is poised to exceed expectations and rewrite the rules of modern transportation, the company added.

As a new start to Tootle, the Tootle Driver App has been already available to download and register from Sept 1. The Tootle customer app will be available to download from Sept 6 to start taking Tootle rides.

What’s new with Tootle?

Sleek and intuitive app: Tootle’s redesigned app boasts a sleek interface and intuitive user experience, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free booking process.

Enhanced partner network: Our expanded network of reliable partners guarantees quicker response times and increased ride availability.

Faster and smarter: Experience expedited pickups, reduced wait times, and optimized routes for a more efficient journey.

Safety measures: Tootle remains committed to passenger safety, implementing cutting-edge safety features to ensure every ride is secure and worry-free.

“We are thrilled to reintroduce Tootle with a renewed passion for transforming urban commuting,” said Shreyas Krishna Shrestha, Owner and CEO of Tootle and Co-Founder of ZAPP. “Our new management team has meticulously crafted an enhanced experience, putting user satisfaction and convenience at the forefront. Tootle’s resurgence represents our dedication to offering a superior ride-sharing service that truly understands and anticipates the needs of our valued users.”

Tootle’s return comes with a promise to empower commuters, simplify their daily journeys, and contribute to reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact within Kathmandu valley, he says.

Two persons died and a child sustained injuries when a bus hit a motorbike in Dhungedhara, Kathmandu on Sunday.

The deceased have been identified as Anita Thapa (32) of Sangachokgadi Municipality, Sindhupalchok and Ram Kumari Bharati (32), SP Kumod Dhungel said.

Both succumbed to their injuries at the Maharajgunj-based Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital during treatment.

The fatal incident occurred when the bus (Na 5 Kha 5092) belonging to the Gorkha Daraudi Transport Company Pvt. Ltd hit a motorbike (Province 2- 037 Pa 0755) coming from the opposition direction this morning.

Nine-year-old Anisha Thapa was injured in the accident and is undergoing treatment at Manmohan Hospital, Kalanki.

Police said that they have impounded the bus and arrested its driver for investigation.

In a recent incident of flooding at Samakhushi, Kathmandu, a 13-year-old child got swept away. This happened because of unplanned urbanization in Kathmandu. Rampant encroachment upon the city’s river banks has increased flood risks.

Old and narrow sewer systems are also to blame as they cannot cater to a burgeoning population resulting from urbanization. Stormwater gushing into these systems accentuates flooding. With rivers constrained because of urbanization, where will the discharge go?

The other problem is climate change. The amount of rainfall that we should be expecting in a year occurs in a space of four months nowadays. Since the city doesn’t have enough natural drainage for the rainwater, rains ultimately end up flooding the streets, and rivers that are already narrow. To avoid incidents like the recent one, the first thing to do would be to let rivers take their natural course. Internationally, many cities have started doing that.

The author is associate professor of urban planning at Pulchowk Campus and general secretary of Regional and Urban Planners’ Society of Nepal

The graph of crimes is increasing in Kathmandu year by year, data shows.

According to the Kathmandu District Police Range, the cases of banking fraud and other economic offenses have significantly soared here in recent times. 

In the fiscal year 2077/78 BS (2020/21) a total of 5,662 cases of crimes were registered in Kathmandu and this number increased to 8,977 in the following year and further rose to 13,464 in the fiscal year 2022-23. Notably, more than half of these cases, specifically 7,101 cases, were related to banking fraud.

Similarly, 2,894 are related to abuse, 647 involve theft, 414 are associated with swindling, 368 are related to drug abuse and smuggling, 357 are related to suicide incidents, and 326 are concerning to women and children.

Likewise, 189 cases are related to traffic accidents and injuries, 27 cases are about murder, and 1,141 cases related to other forms of offenses.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Dan Bahadur Karki, said the data presents the escalating trend of banking fraud and other economic offenses in Kathmandu lately. 

This includes banking fraud, swindling through lottery scams, and deceptive promises of lucrative employment opportunities abroad. 

A study has estimated the cost of building the Kathmandu-Raxaul electric railway line at around Rs 400bn.

The report of the Final Location Survey (FLS) conducted by the Indian government has put the estimated cost of the project at Rs 400bn, government officials say.

The Indian government has forwarded the report to the government for approval. The survey was conducted with financial and technical support from India. The two countries signed the survey agreement in September 2021, giving a timeframe of 18 months.

Earlier, the Indian government had conducted the Preliminary Engineering Cum Traffic (PET) Survey and submitted its report to the Nepali government. The survey had estimated the cost at Rs 250bn.

Both the PET and LFS surveys were conducted by the Konkan Railway Corporation, a Government of India undertaking. “The PET survey had estimated the total length at 136 kilometers, but the recent LFS survey report states that the total length will be 140 km. The length increased a bit to avoid the proposed location of the Nijgadh International Airport,” said Senior Divisional Engineer Aman Chitrakar, spokesperson for the Department of Railways.

According to the survey report, there will be 13 stations between Raxaul and Kathmandu, with the train passing through Bara, Parsa, and Makwanpur to reach the final station at Chobhar. Given the route’s hilly terrain, the project will involve the construction of numerous bridges and tunnels. About 41 km of the railway line will pass through tunnels. India has proposed building the railway line in broad gauge, allowing for a maximum speed of 120 km per hour.

With the survey report completed, the government will now initiate discussions on the investment modality. While Nepal had proposed India to build the line in standard gauge, which is used worldwide, India has insisted on constructing it in broad gauge. This may pose difficulties later on as Nepal prepares to build the East-West railway and Kerung-Kathmandu railway in standard gauge. According to Chitrakar, even India is building new railway lines in its territory in standard gauge.