Challenges of transportation in Godawari Municipality

Technology Khabar १ पुष २०८१, सोमबार

Challenges of transportation in Godawari Municipality
Global IME Bank

काठमाडौं ।

-Shriwatsa Acharya

Godawari Municipality, located in Lalitpur, is a vibrant and diverse region. Despite being in close proximity to Kathmandu, the Ring Road, and major urban areas, its residents face considerable transportation challenges. The municipality’s blend of urban, semi-urban, and remote areas creates significant connectivity issues, impacting daily life and hindering equitable development.

Transportation challenges in Godawari vary across its 14 wards, each with distinct geographical features. In remote areas such as Devichaur and Dukuchhap, poorly maintained, unpaved roads make access to municipal services, healthcare, and markets particularly difficult.

Transitional areas like Chhampi, Badikhel, and Lele face a lack of reliable transport infrastructure despite rapid development. Semi-urban zones such as Thaiba and Godawari experience congestion and limited public transport, while central wards like Chapagaun and Thecho, though better connected, struggle with issues of road quality and inadequate public transport.

The consequences of these deficiencies are far-reaching. Residents in remote areas endure long journeys to access the municipality office in Chapagaun for routine tasks.

Economic activities, especially agriculture, are stifled as farmers face challenges in transporting goods to markets. Students and patients face delays due to unreliable transport, affecting education and healthcare access. Vulnerable populations, including women and the elderly, experience heightened social exclusion due to mobility constraints.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach. Improving road infrastructure is critical, particularly paving and upgrading rural roads in areas like Devichaur and Dukuchhap, with regular maintenance to withstand seasonal damage.

Expanding public transport options is equally important. Initiatives such as Godawari Municipal Shuttle Services, transport subsidies for low-income groups, and partnerships with private providers can enhance mobility. Digital transformation of municipal services, including the establishment of online platforms and digital kiosks, can reduce the dependency on physical travel.

Community-led solutions also hold promise. Local transport cooperatives can tailor services to specific wards, ensuring sustainability and addressing unique needs. Promoting sustainable transport options, such as electric vehicles and bicycle lanes in urban areas like Chapagaun and Thaiba, can enhance connectivity while minimizing environmental impact.

Although Godawari Municipality is close to Kathmandu and major transport hubs, inadequate infrastructure continues to challenge its residents. Through targeted improvements in road connectivity, expanded public transport, and digital services, Godawari can pave the way for more inclusive development.

Collaborative efforts by the government, local authorities, and community stakeholders will be essential to overcoming these challenges and unlocking new opportunities for all residents.

(The writer is pursuing his Master Degree in Transportation Engineering and Management in Universal Engineering and Science College. Chakupat Lalitpur)

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