NPL creating a boom in businesses

KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 8: Sports are recognized globally as a significant driver of economic growth and tourism development. The Indian Premier League (IPL) in neighbouring India serves as a strong example for Nepal, demonstrating how sports competitions can substantially impact a nation's economy.

At Nepal's TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, the ongoing Nepal Premier League (NPL) has attracted significant investments from prominent business houses and financial institutions. The advertising market is thriving, and small-scale businesses, such as tea and snack stalls around the ground, have experienced remarkable growth.

Since the NPL began on December 3, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs have reaped substantial benefits. Retail stalls within the cricket ground are drawing as much attention as the matches. Vendors selling tea, cigarettes, noodles, momos, sweets, biscuits, instant noodles, water, and juices have reported booming sales from day one.

Street vendors who previously spent hours waiting for customers are now bustling with activity around the cricket ground. Large crowds have overwhelmed them with demand, and the winter season has further boosted sales of tea, cigarettes, and hot snacks.

Durga Sapkota, a momo vendor at the cricket ground, shared how the NPL revived its business after it suffered during COVID-19. “I’m thrilled with the NPL. International players are participating, and business has been as expected, with crowds growing daily. Allowing struggling entrepreneurs like us to trade here is a significant relief,” he said, adding that he sells 150 to 200 plates of momos daily.

Similarly, Bhaktiraj Giri, a Grade 12 student selling Matka Tea, reported earning NPR 15,000 to 20,000 daily. “If I work consistently from morning to evening, I make around NPR 15,000 to 20,000 daily. The NPL has been incredibly profitable, not just for me but for everyone involved,” he said.

Manju Tamang, who previously ran a sidewalk business near Nepal Police and Army offices, is now selling peanuts, instant noodles, water, chewing gum, and chocolates at the cricket ground. “Business is steady. I earn an average of 100 rupees daily,” she mentioned.

Gopal Jethra from Humla, who works other jobs from Sunday to Friday, has been selling peanuts and water at the TU Cricket Ground on Saturdays since the NPL began. “I only sell on Saturdays because I work in an office during the week. Business has been good and helps cover my basic expenses,” he said.

Binita Niraula, operating a stall selling HappyDent chewing gum, reported daily sales of NPR 2,000 to 3,000. “Sales are going well; I earn about NPR 2,000 to 3,000 daily,” she noted.

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) emphasized that the NPL would stimulate both cricket and the local economy. It is estimated that the NPL has mobilized an economy worth NPR 1 billion.

 

 

 

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