Kathmandu: The Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN) has expressed serious concern over the recent social tensions and unrest witnessed in different parts of the country, calling on all Nepalis to uphold mutual understanding, tolerance, and unity in the interest of social harmony, peace, and national development.
In a statement issued by IPPAN Chairman Mohankumar Dangi, the association noted that Nepal is globally recognized for the mutual respect, tolerance, and coexistence among its diverse languages, religions, cultures, and communities. IPPAN stressed that any form of disagreement, dispute, or dissatisfaction should be resolved through dialogue, negotiations, and constitutional and legal processes.
Describing the energy sector as a key pillar of the country’s economic prosperity, IPPAN stated that the private sector has been working in partnership with local communities across the Himalayas, hills, and Tarai to develop hydropower projects, generating investment, employment, infrastructure, and local economic activities.
According to the association, peace, social harmony, mutual trust, and a secure investment environment are essential for the successful implementation of hydropower projects. Such an environment attracts long-term investment, enables projects to be completed on schedule, creates local employment opportunities, and accelerates the country’s economic growth.
However, IPPAN warned that social unrest, violence, vandalism, strikes, obstructions, and an insecure environment directly affect project construction while undermining investor confidence. It cautioned that these factors increase production costs, delay project completion, and adversely impact local communities, businesses, workers, and the overall national economy.
The association further stated that expanding both private and public investment, creating employment, increasing energy production, and promoting industrial development are essential to making Nepal’s economy more dynamic. To achieve these goals, IPPAN urged the government, relevant authorities, and stakeholders to play a more proactive role in maintaining peace, the rule of law, and social harmony.
IPPAN also called on civil society, the private sector, local communities, social organizations, and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, dialogue, and public awareness initiatives to promote social, religious, and community harmony.
“A peaceful, secure, and harmonious environment is the foundation for energy development, investment promotion, sustainable economic prosperity, and a prosperous Nepal,” the association said.
IPPAN also appealed to all Nepalis to further strengthen the spirit of mutual respect, tolerance, and unity and work together in the nation’s development.
Nepalpurbadhar
