Author: space4knews

Chaurjahari Airport has been closed for eight years, and regular flights have been suspended following the paving of its runway. Locals have expressed concerns over disruptions to trade and transportation due to the airport’s closure, stating they have been unable to access convenient air services. Nepal Airlines Corporation has relocated its office to Nepalgunj and is preparing to resume flights from next month.

April 10, Jajarkot – Located in ward number 1 of Chaurjahari Municipality, Rukum West, Chaurjahari Airport has remained completely closed for eight years. Established in 1971 (B.S. 2028), the airport used to operate regular flights on its unpaved runway, but these ceased after the runway was paved. The airport has been closed since 2020 (B.S. 2077).

With the paving of the runway, there had been expectations for increased flights, boosted commercial and tourism activities, and enhanced transport facilities. However, these hopes have not materialized, leaving local residents disappointed. The locals have described the closure of an airport developed with investments running into millions as an unfortunate event.

The area, once bustling with activity when planes arrived, has become quiet, affecting local business and trade, according to residents. The closure has particularly impacted citizens from Rukum, Jajarkot, Salyan, and Dolpa. Tej Bahadur Bishta, former president of the Chaurjahari Industry and Commerce Association, said that the citizens of Chaurjahari, which is rapidly developing as a new town, have lost access to convenient air services due to the airport’s closure.

He stated, “It is shameful that an airport constructed at a cost of millions of government budget is closed at a time when people seek easy and straightforward travel. The citizens have suffered due to the state’s inability to utilize such a valuable asset.”

Delbahadur Giri, administrator of Simen Chaurjahari Hospital, remarked that although there is potential for regular operations, the government has not paid sufficient attention. He emphasized the priority of properly using existing facilities. Giri criticized the airport’s closure on various pretexts after the runway was paved as irresponsible.

Currently, the airport area is overgrown with shrubs, and much of the equipment is non-functional.

Preparations are underway to resume flights at Chaurjahari Airport from July. Nepal Airlines Corporation has shifted its office to Chaurjahari. With the office moved to Nepalgunj for additional facilities, employee Surendra Nepali currently works at another nearby airport in the district, Salle.

Although the Civil Aviation Authority’s office and control tower are located close to the runway, there is a lack of long-term air traffic controllers, and the tower remains closed. While a police outpost exists to ensure airport security, it is also non-operational.

Previously, the regional Nepalgunj team of Nepal Airlines removed important equipment from the airport. Due to a shortage of aircraft and low passenger numbers, the office was relocated. Surendra Nepali, an employee at Salle Airport, said there is a possibility flights may operate from the upcoming July season.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that the end of the war in Ukraine is near. However, he clarified that he will meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky only after a permanent peace agreement is established. Putin made these remarks to journalists at the Kremlin following the Victory Day parade, which was held on a limited scale for the first time in many years to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany.

Russia observes May 9 as a national holiday to honor the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. According to a BBC editor present at the parade, this year there were no tanks or other military equipment displayed, which are typically showcased by the Kremlin as a demonstration of Russian military strength on the international stage. Steve Rosenberg, the BBC’s Russia editor attending the Victory Day parade on Red Square, noted a distinct difference this year. “This year’s edition felt very different. In previous years, one had to run from the media bus near St. Basil’s Cathedral to find a spot reserved for the press,” he commented.

Since the start of a three-day ceasefire on Saturday, Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violations. Although no significant large-scale attacks have been reported, six people were injured in a Ukrainian drone attack in the Russian republic of Chechnya. At least three others were injured in separate drone strikes within Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported two deaths and three injuries. The three-day ceasefire was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who also mentioned that each side would exchange 1,000 prisoners during the ceasefire period.

The war has also severely impacted Russia’s economy.

The international convention center built at a cost of 1.11 billion NPR and the exhibition center costing nearly 1 billion NPR in Butwal have created significant potential to establish the city as a major hub for MICE tourism. With two cable cars, Manimukunda Sen Park, Jitgadhi, Hill Park, and Shankarnagar Botanical Garden, Butwal has built a strong foundation for MICE tourism. Tourism Minister Nyaupane stated that these infrastructures will elevate Butwal to a premier MICE tourism destination and boost tourism and the economy of Lumbini Province.

The international convention center, international exhibition center, and the two cable cars among other extensive tourist infrastructures in Butwal indicate the city’s potential to develop as a significant MICE tourism hub. The Butwal Convention Center is the first international standard convention venue outside Kathmandu. Located in Butwal Sub-metropolitan City Ward No. 10, the Butwal Mandap covers 6.5 bighas of land and includes a main hall with a capacity of one thousand people and 12 additional halls.

These infrastructures are expected to transform Butwal entirely into a center for MICE tourism. Butwal operates two cable cars, Lumbini and Siddhartha, that have become new tourist attractions for MICE tourism. It is unique in Nepal for having two cable cars in the same city.

MICE tourism refers to an acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions organized by various institutions, companies, or governments. Although MICE tourism is not yet widely recognized in Nepal, tourism entrepreneurs see substantial potential in it. Loknath Panthi, Chairman of the Butwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that using Butwal as a base will help funnel tourists toward destinations such as Lumbini, Pokhara, Palpa, and Gulmi, thereby promoting tourism throughout the region.

April 10, Kathmandu – Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed hope that the ongoing conflict with Iran will be resolved soon. He warned that a prolonged conflict would result in significant losses for all parties involved. According to BBC, speaking to journalists on Saturday, Putin stated, “This is a very complex conflict and it has placed us in a difficult situation because we maintain friendly relations with both Iran and the countries of the Persian Gulf.”

Referring to the ongoing talks between Iran and the United States, he added, “In my opinion, no party wants to extend this conflict.” Recently, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with President Putin during a visit to Russia. Russia has previously urged all sides to establish peace and has expressed readiness to mediate between Iran and the United States.

In the Bagar farmland area of Kanchanpur’s Krishnapur Municipality, the freed Kamaiya families sustain their livelihoods by cultivating and selling fruits and vegetables beside the roadside. Over 80 freed Kamaiya households in the Vanhara settlement engage in Bagar farming, earning up to NPR 5,000 daily. Despite government agricultural subsidies, irrigation support, and market management programs, these initiatives have yet to fully reach the Kamaiya families, who primarily rely on their own resources. (April 27, Kanchanpur)

Vehicles traveling along the East-West Mahendra Highway occasionally pause near the Vanhara area of Krishnapur Municipality. Small makeshift huts line the roadside, showcasing fresh cucumbers, watermelons, muskmelons, and gourds. During the intense summer heat, travelers stop here to quench their thirst with fresh produce before continuing their journeys. However, this humble roadside trade is not just about alleviating travelers’ thirst; it represents a vital struggle for livelihood and self-reliance for the freed Kamaiya families.

Neeraj Rana from Krishnapur Municipality-2 has been sustaining his family for the past four years by selling fruits and vegetables cultivated on Bagar farmland beside the Vanhara River. Most of his customers are vehicle drivers and travelers along the highway. “Earning income by selling fruits and vegetables from morning till evening along the roadside covers my family’s daily expenses,” he said. Rana lives in the freed Kamaiya settlement, on a five-kaththa plot of land provided by the government about three decades ago during resettlement. His family has been residing in a basic house built on that land.

Starting from mid-January, he cultivates cucumbers, watermelons, muskmelons, gourds, and bitter melons in the Bagar farmland, while growing maize near his home garden. These fruits and vegetables are sold right beside the highway. “Daily sales can reach up to NPR 5,000,” Rana reported. “During peak season, earnings range between NPR 50,000 and 100,000, which helps us sustain our family.”

Currently, more than 80 families in the Vanhara freed Kamaiya settlement are involved in Bagar farming. Local farmer Shivlal Rana, who has been selling fruits and vegetables produced along the riverbank for about six years, shared that he cultivates watermelons on seven kaththa and gourds, squashes, and bitter gourds on ten kaththa. “Last year, we suffered losses due to unsold watermelon crops, so this year I have reduced watermelon cultivation and increased other crops,” Shivlal said. “At peak season, sales can reach NPR 500,000, allowing savings of NPR 200,000 to 300,000.”

In his view, farming is the primary source of family income. “There are no other reliable sources of work,” he added. “The income from farming is essential to meet annual expenses.” Along the roadside, watermelons sell at NPR 25 per kilogram, cucumbers at NPR 40, squashes at NPR 60, and bitter melons at NPR 50 each. Raw maize sells for NPR 15 per cob. Many travelers stop in Vanhara area during summer to purchase fresh cucumbers and watermelons.

Ramesh Bohara, a driver who frequently buys vegetables here, stated that the produce is fresh and affordable. “Fresh vegetables and fruits are available right along the highway, and the cucumbers and watermelons here are very tasty,” he said. “Purchasing local farmers’ produce also helps support them.” However, Kamaiya trader highlighted the increased risk of accidents due to the need to trade right next to the road. High-speed vehicles pose ongoing safety challenges.

Shreedhar Rana, involved in selling vegetables and fruits, stressed the need for safe market management. “It would be much easier if the municipality provided a secure marketplace,” he said. “An organized location would reduce accident risks, but no initiatives have been taken so far.” Despite good earnings from Bagar farming, they emphasized it requires substantial investment and hard work.

Initial expenses for cultivating amount to NPR 30,000 to 100,000. Fertilizers, seeds, plowing, irrigation, and other costs add up, shared farmer Anita Rana. “Farming is not easy; it demands relentless effort day and night,” she said. “Only good management ensures high yields.”

Local resident Jugmani Chaudhary shared that sales from vegetables grown in the Bagar help procure essential household food items. “The money from farming buys rice, salt, and oil,” she said. According to Bira Rana, Bagar farming has brought positive changes to the lives of freed Kamaiya families. “The sweat we shed on the fields is not wasted,” he said. “Hard work yields good production and income. This farming sustains our livelihoods.”

Until recently, family members had to wander village to village seeking employment. Now, by selling their own produce, they have successfully made their families self-reliant. For the Vanhara freed Kamaiya families, Bagar farming is becoming more than just a source of income—it is a foundation for self-sufficiency. However, government programs on agricultural subsidies, irrigation, seed supply, and market management have yet to fully reach these families, who still primarily depend on their own investment and labor.

Ward member Lilawati Wadayak said, “With a little more government support, production could increase further. Assistance in market management and agricultural materials would boost our income.” The Bagar farmland along the Vanhara River has now become a beacon of hope for the freed Kamaiya families. From morning till evening, the fruits of their sweat in the form of vegetables and fruits not only meet their household expenses but also serve as a source of dignity and independence in their lives.

Procedures to issue a red notice against former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Dr. Arju Rana Deuba are underway. The National Central Bureau (NCB) has forwarded the necessary additional documents to Interpol, according to police sources. The Deuba couple is currently abroad, reportedly residing in Hong Kong.

April 10, Kathmandu – The process to issue a red notice against former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress ex-chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, former Foreign Minister Dr. Arju Rana Deuba, has begun. After Interpol requested further documentation, the NCB sent the required papers, police headquarters sources confirmed. Quoting these sources, the police stated, “A few days ago, we received an email requesting additional documents, which we have since furnished accordingly.”

On March 7, an arrest warrant was issued against the Deuba couple. The Kathmandu District Court issued the warrant based on recommendations from the Department of Money Laundering Investigation. Following the warrant, efforts to bring the Deubas back to Nepal were initiated. The NCB officially communicated with Interpol seeking the red notice, but Interpol has yet to issue it due to the initial lack of documents.

At the time the arrest warrant was issued, the Deuba couple was abroad. Ahead of the elections, they traveled to Singapore for medical treatment on February 27 and later arrived in Hong Kong on March 20. They had also gone to Singapore for treatment following the Janajati movement. Despite leaving Nepal on February 27, they have not returned since. According to sources, they are still in Hong Kong. If a red notice is issued, Interpol’s 196 member countries will be authorized to arrest the Deuba couple, and upon detention, legal procedures can be completed to repatriate them to Nepal.

April 27, Manang – Among the world’s most daring and risky undertakings is the harvesting of cliff honey. This hazardous activity takes place in districts such as Lamjung, Gorkha, and Myagdi in Gandaki Province. Among these, Lamjung district is best known for cliff honey hunting. Near Mipragau in Marsyangdi Rural Municipality-4, locals risk their lives by hanging on ropes to extract honey from cliff bee nests at Chipli Cliff. This practice has attracted not only local residents but also tourists. Locals have shared that they engage in cliff honey collection with the intent to keep their traditional occupation alive.

Local hunter Tek Bahadur Gurung states that the tradition of cliff honey harvesting is being maintained through generational transfer. Previously, only elders participated in this task, but now passing knowledge to the younger generation is a priority to sustain the practice. “Cliff honey is used as medicine. We have been extracting honey from the cliffs taking risks for its medicinal benefits,” Gurung explained. He added that there is high demand for cliff honey. Typically, the honey is harvested twice a year.

According to Gurung, “The first phase of honey collection takes place between the last week of Baisakh and the second week of Jestha, and the second phase happens from the last week of Ashoj through the second week of Kartik. There is a tradition that honey collection takes place only on Fridays. When honey is abundant, the process can extend over two days.” In preparation for the hunt, villagers bring wood from the forest on specific dates to make platforms called “choya” which are then shaped into ladders. These ladders, made by heating the wood, are assembled by villagers and can be used for three to four years.

Once the ladders are ready, the villagers venture together to the cliffs for honey hunting. This activity is known worldwide as one of the most adventurous professions and has become a major attraction for foreign tourists, generating income for the village, explained hunter Min Bahadur Gurung. “Earlier, only the face was covered during honey extraction, but now the entire body is protected, which has reduced the risks,” he said. Gurung added that cliff honey acts as therapy when bees sting lightly, but intense stings can be life-threatening.

Initially, cliff honey was used medicinally and mostly limited to local usage. With human development, clothing styles have changed, and the trend of full-body coverings during honey collection has increased, making the process safer, locals said. What was once a locally restricted activity has now attracted foreign tourists as well, said Gurung. Visitors come to witness the hunting of cliff honey, noted the villagers. Highlighting the need to preserve and sustain this natural and adventurous practice, Kemal, a citizen from Turkey, said, “This is a risky activity, but the bravery of the local people here has captivated everyone. We must link this natural risk with income generation.” Kemal expressed his pleasure witnessing local courage during the honey harvesting process. “I felt scared even when I saw some bees on the honey I collected. Nepalese people are truly brave, something I understood with my own eyes.”

The demand for cliff honey continues to increase not only due to the tradition but also because of its medicinal qualities. The necessity to continue this practice is clear. Developing it as a natural product to generate income while promoting and protecting this tradition is evident. Attention must be given to preserving this legacy and turning it into a center of attraction for foreign tourists.

Sharda Municipality has initiated a large-scale community drinking water project in Khairabang with an estimated cost of NPR 254.3 million. This project aims to directly supply water to nearly 1,200 households and 5,500 residents in Wards 1, 11, and 12. The region has long faced water shortages, significantly affecting children and the elderly. The project is expected to be completed within 18 months. Kathmandu, 9 May – Nestled among scenic hills and lush forests, Khairabang is a religiously significant area. However, its residents have endured water scarcity for generations, forced to spend hours walking to distant springs. During summer, the drying springs and reduced water supply further exacerbate the challenges, causing residents to wait their turn for water.

Suklal Thapa of Khairabang-11 expressed his distress over the persistent drinking water problems his community has faced for ages. “We have been walking hours through steep paths to reach springs for water since I can remember. In the months of Baishakh and Jestha, many springs dry up, making us wait lengthy periods in turn,” he said. “Sanitation and irrigation remain dreams for us.”

Citizens like Suklal collectively endure the same struggle. The water shortage most severely impacts children and senior citizens. The time spent fetching water negatively influences daily life, education, and health. Many locals have been forced to migrate due to this crisis, as noted by resident Birendra Basnet. However, there is renewed hope that the Sharda Municipality’s ambitious Khairabang community drinking water project will end these hardships. “Many people have relocated due to the water shortage, and the elderly and children suffer the most,” Basnet shared. “The shortage affects health and causes difficulties in education. The municipality’s new project brings hope that water will soon reach every household.”

Valued at NPR 254.3 million, the municipality has commenced the Khairabang community drinking water project, which involves transporting water from the Sharda River using lift technology up to the Kakakul settlement. The water source is located about two kilometers downhill from the settlement. According to the municipality, the contract amount including VAT is NPR 178,549,875. The construction company M Construction, based in Lalitpur, was entrusted with completing the project by 23 August 2021 (Bhadra 7, 2078 BS). Upon completion, approximately 1,200 households across Wards 1, 11, and 12 will directly benefit, according to Mayor Prakash Bhandari. The municipality prioritizes ensuring no residents suffer from water scarcity. “This project, costing NPR 254.3 million, is designed to provide clean and safe water to every household. Once completed, 1,200 households and 5,500 residents in Wards 1, 11, and 12 will have water directly at their homes,” he stated. With quality construction contractors involved and an 18-month timeline, the project is expected to finish ahead of schedule. Local residents are optimistic that the long-standing drinking water crisis will finally end. If completed on time, the community will, for the first time, enjoy convenient and safe water access at home.

On April 27, Peter Magyar took the oath as Hungary’s new Prime Minister. The Tisza Party secured a historic victory in the 2026 elections, winning a two-thirds majority. Magyar has pledged to establish a special agency to investigate corruption and to maintain democratic balance.

April 27, Budapest – Peter Magyar, leader of Hungary’s Tisza Party, was sworn in on Saturday as the nation’s new Prime Minister. Last month, the center-right Tisza Party achieved a stunning victory over former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s nationalist-populist Fidesz party, securing a two-thirds majority in parliament. The Tisza Party became the party with the highest number of votes and seats ever recorded in Hungary. This success paves the way for the new government to dismantle Orbán’s authoritarian and right-wing policies.

Addressing parliament following his inauguration, Magyar stated, “I have come not for power but to serve the motherland. I stand apart from other leaders.” He added, “Millions of Hungarians voted for change, and I have become the bearer of that change.” He described the trust placed in him by the people as both a moral duty and an unparalleled emotion.

During the election campaign, Magyar committed to restoring democratic institutions. Orbán’s 16-year administration faced widespread corruption allegations. The new government is also expected to bring political shifts within the European Union, where Orbán had challenged unity by employing vetoes on decisions supporting Ukraine.

Peter Magyar currently serves as Hungary’s Prime Minister and chairs the Tisza Party. Born on March 16, 1981, in Budapest, he is a legal professional. In the 2026 parliamentary election, he ended Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule, introducing a fresh political force in Hungary. Initially, Magyar was closely affiliated with Orbán’s nationalist Fidesz party and held government posts. He is the former husband of Judit Varga, Hungary’s previous Minister of Justice.

In February 2024, after a political scandal, Magyar strongly criticized the Fidesz party and government corruption, resigning from all government and party positions. After leaving Fidesz, he took leadership of the Tisza Party and, within two years, secured a historic two-thirds majority in the 2026 elections. His central agenda is to eradicate corruption, which had increased during Orbán’s tenure. He plans to establish a dedicated agency to investigate corruption cases.

Magyar has committed to improving Hungary’s strained relationship with the European Union and maintaining democratic balance at home. He advocates for democratic values and supports the European Union, although he holds traditionalist and restrictive views on immigration policies. His goal is to remove Orbán, who has ruled since 2010, and return Hungary to the path of European democracy.

Iran has drafted a new bill regulating the passage of foreign vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal includes banning entry of Israeli and American ships while imposing taxes on other vessels. Ibrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security Committee, described the legislation as a “preventive law” that will be enacted soon. April 10, Kathmandu.

Tehran regards the move as a step to reinforce its sovereignty and maritime security. Speaking at a ceremony in Tehran, Azizi said the bill would be approved after the parliament resumes sessions. “The bill is ready,” he stated, “and coordinated discussions have been held with the Foreign Ministry, Ports and Maritime Organization, and other relevant national authorities.”

Highlighting Iran’s long-standing support for safe and free navigation through this vital waterway, Azizi attributed regional instability primarily to the US military presence and Israeli activities. “This bill aims to strengthen Iran’s sovereignty in the Strait of Hormuz,” he explained, “with the US military presence and Israeli aggression as the main causes of insecurity and unrest in the Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz.”

According to the semi-official Fars News Agency, a minor clash occurred on Friday between Iranian and US forces in the Strait of Hormuz.