Phase of Reconstruction
It is about time the country embarked on the path towards reconstruction of the destroyed infrastructures (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). Since the peace has been restored, no time should be wasted any more in starting reconstruction efforts. The budget of this fiscal year itself should have concentrated on this aspect. Anyway, better late than never. The authorities must start planning and putting the plans into operation to rebuild the infrastructures.
Suraj Kafle
Tinkune
Numerous Problems
Before starting the job of reconstruction, it is important that the government took stock of the destruction that was done in the last twelve years (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). The government must make a full assessment of the damages incurred. I am not aware of any government effort towards the assessment of the damage. After the assessment is completed, the government can then make plans for rebuilding, reconstructing or upgrading those infrastructures. Based on the plan, the government should appeal to the donors for assistance.
Kiran Bista
Hattigaunda
Damages of Different Types
In course of the violent conflict all kinds of infrastructures and buildings were destroyed (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). In a mindless fashion, then Maoist rebels exploded bombs to destroy hundreds of VDC buildings. These structures will now have to be rebuilt. Such a sheer waste of resources and time and effort in a country, which is already so poor. Likewise, bridges were also destroyed that have disconnected communities. Telephone towers and electricity power houses were bombed. It is so easy and quick to destroy anything but when it comes to rebuilding, money, manpower and planning will be required. It would be appropriate and justified to mobilize the thousands of Maoist fighters in the task of rebuilding these infrastructures. That would also teach them about the importance of infrastructures.
Lilanath Sharma
Battisputali
Build New Nepal
When reconstructing the damaged infrastructures, it is important not merely to limit in their rebuilding (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). Given the needs of the time, the infrastructures should be upgraded also. When rebuilding VDC buildings, they should now be developed into modern administrative units equipped with all necessary facilities. Likewise, when rebuilding bridges, concrete bridges should replace the older ones. The operation of reconstruction is not only a challenge but also an opportunity to build new Nepal .
Hitbir Lama
Gaushala
Human Cost
Although there is a lot of talk about reconstruction of damaged physical structures, there are very few people who are talking about the need to reconstruct the damaged psychology of the people (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). Due to the violent conflict, people have been killed, maimed and displaced. The human cost of this conflict is far greater than any material cost. It is, therefore, more important to assess the human cost and work to heal psychological and mental trauma faced by thousands of people. The emotional reconstruction should, therefore, be the top priority.
Dinesh Limbu
Jawalakhel
Raise Awareness
When launching the operation of reconstruction it is equally necessary to raise awareness about the importance of the infrastructures for the development and modernization of the country (Reconstruction Challenges, SPOTLIGHT January 5). People must be made aware that the infrastructure belongs to them and are there for their service. If that can be done, then in future nobody will dare destroy infrastructures in the name of any kind of war or insurgency.
Hemanta Satyal
Sallaghari
Ominous Episode
The Nepalgunj riots (A Chilling Episode, SPOTLIGHT January 5) has come as a grim reminder to all Nepalese about the vulnerability of their social harmony. How easily and how quickly this harmony can be strained and exploited by the nefarious elements for their dark aims. Every one of Nepalese must remain alert during this transitional period to protect the national integrity of this country. Otherwise, whatever they have gained in the name of democracy can vaporize in few moments.
Madan Shrestha
Jamal
Unsung Hero
The interview of Dr. Ganesh Bahadur Singh (SPOTIGHT January 5) was quite good. It showed that there are people like Dr. Singh who have given up the luxuries of urban life to serve the poor and needy people. He appears to be an Albert Schweitzer of Nepal . Because of the unsung heroes like him, this country is still so beautiful and its people are still called friendly and dedicated. And it is because of people like him than Nepal still can hope to have a bright future.
Kalpana Mainali
Kopundole
