LALITPUR, June 9: In a move praised as a model of good governance, Lalitpur Metropolitan City held a series of consultations with stakeholders, subject matter experts, and lawmakers from Lalitpur district to shape its upcoming policy, program, and budget for fiscal year 2025/26.
The initiative, led by Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, aims to make the policy-making process participatory and need-based. “As elected representatives, we are not subject experts. That’s why we are consulting with those who are,” said Maharjan, adding that suggestions from diverse sectors would guide the upcoming fiscal blueprint. Deputy Mayor and Budget Drafting Committee Coordinator Manjali Shakya Bajracharya emphasized that inclusive and thoughtful policy leads to effective budgeting and implementation.
Chief Administrative Officer Rekha Das Shrestha noted the city's commitment to inclusive planning by engaging a wide range of communities and professional sectors. She also highlighted the digitalization of public services as a success in improving efficiency.
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According to the Metropolitan City, 89 percent of the 324 policies proposed in the previous year were shaped by public feedback. Mayor Maharjan reiterated that transparency, frugality, good governance, and sustainable development are the city’s guiding principles. He also announced plans to include information technology as a priority area, with aspirations of turning Lalitpur into a "Silicon Valley" of Nepal.
Lawmakers from both the House of Representatives and Provincial Assembly, including Uday Shamsher Rana, Prem Bahadur Maharjan, and Roshan Karki, commended the initiative. They called for prioritizing services that improve daily life, such as urban transport, education, health, environmental protection, and public land management.
Specialists and advisors also stressed the need for long-term planning. Suggestions included land-pooling policies for better urban management, a five-year education master plan, disaster management strategies, and improved regulation of street food and tax systems. Experts also urged stronger preservation of cultural and natural heritage, improved accessibility for people with disabilities, and climate action through urban greenery.
Representatives from local associations, including artisans, cooperatives, and disability advocacy groups, echoed similar priorities. Calls were made for policies supporting handicraft promotion, inclusive sports, autism-friendly education systems, and the development of a language policy for the Nepal Bhasa-speaking community.
The Metropolitan Office stated that all constructive feedback will be reviewed for incorporation into the upcoming policy and budget documents.
