Finance Committee members dwell upon Lumbini's development

LUMBINI, JANUARY 27: A team headed by the President of the Finance Committee under the House of Representatives visited Lumbini yesterday.

The delegation, led by Committee President Santosh Chalise, toured the Mayadevi Temple in Lumbini and expressed concerns over the slow progress in the development of the region.

Sanu Raja Shakya, Member-Secretary of the Lumbini Development Trust, welcomed the lawmakers and briefed them on the ongoing efforts and remaining tasks under the Lumbini Master Plan.

Following the visit, Finance Committee member Surya Thapa highlighted the importance of Lumbini as a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and peace advocates worldwide. He noted that 88 percent of the master plan has been implemented and assured efforts to address the budgetary constraints hindering the completion of the remaining work.

During the briefing, Member-Secretary Shakya emphasized the archaeological, religious, and cultural significance of Lumbini. He also voiced concerns about the declining allocation of funds for the region in recent years.

The team offered prayers at key landmarks, including the Mayadevi Temple, the holy Pushkarani Pond, the Ashoka Pillar, and nearby monasteries.