Kathmandu. In order to protect the uniqueness of Asan area of Kathmandu, it has been decided to increase social, cultural and commercial activities by prohibiting the entry of vehicles every Saturday from April 5. Earlier, local organizations, clubs and communities were preparing to organize the program from April 28.

A meeting held under the chairmanship of Acting Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Sunita Dangol comprising Chief Administrative Officer Saroj Guragain, Ward Chair Yogesh Khadgi, Chief of Administrative Department Mahesh Kafle, officials of the concerned offices, representatives of local organizations, clubs and communities decided to implement the programme from April 5.

“Asan is a place needed for religious and social activities from birth to death. It is our responsibility to preserve its ancient and cultural significance. In the meeting, acting chief Dangol said, “Let’s start the program with the participation of ward office leadership, stakeholders and partners and local ownership.” Let’s make the work that has been started sustainable. He said that the program would be run keeping the ease and security of the locals and the movement of the locals.

“The ward has taken forward the program with the support of locals, organizations, clubs and the community. Yogesh Kumar Khadgi, ward chairperson, said, “The programme will contribute to the control of air pollution along with the originality of Asan Bazaar.” ’

During the meeting, Superintendent of Police at Kathmandu Valley Police Office Prajit KC, Deputy Superintendent of Police at Kathmandu Traffic Police Office Lokendra Singh Gurung and Chief of Metropolitan Police Force Bishnu Prasad Joshi said that the traffic movement and footpath management and security arrangements would be strengthened.

Under the ‘Vehicle Free Session’ program, the metropolis ward no. Vehicles will be banned from Kamalakshi Chowk to Asan, Bhotahiti Chowk to Asan of Ward 27 and from Mahabouddha to Asan every Saturday. An alternative route will be provided to the vehicles heading to the destination from this area.

The area would be developed as a heritage corridor to promote local traditional and indigenous trade and business. Original cultural programs and social activities will be conducted. The responsibility of its operation and management has been given to the Metropolitan Police Force.