May-June 2012

OPINION
There are number of solutions given by experts over time
for the problem of traffic congestion. One of the solutions
to the acute problem of traffic can be decentralization.
We have to decentralize the business activity from
Kathmandu to other cities. We need to establish potential
cities which will be developed as self contained entities
reducing the pressure on Kathmandu. We always talk
about response rather than mitigation. Decentralization is
mitigation as it will not only relieve the traffic congestion
but will help in increased efficiency and equity along with
higher responsiveness of governments to the demands
of the citizens. Since people come to Kathmandu for
better education and health facilities, if we provide these
facilities in other potential cities than people would not
come to Kathmandu for these facilities hence relieving
the pressure on it. Better employment opportunities at
other cities will also help Kathmandu. One of the issues
in Kathmandu has also been the international airport.
The construction of a new international airport in Pokhara
or other cities will make international and local tourists
to use it rather than come to Kathmandu and take buses
or vehicles to their respective destinations. Demolition
of illegal houses is good but demolishing houses is not
the best solution, we need to think about other strategies
which will be successful in the long run. •
May - June 2012
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