Mar 24, Kathmandu - A new 'Cleanliness Study Center' has been inaugurated in Lumbini to enhance waste management and promote sustainable development and a green economy in the region. The center aims to transform Lumbini’s image by addressing waste issues that have previously marred its reputation among the millions of pilgrims and tourists visiting annually.

Located in Dhodhawa, Ward 5 of Lumbini Cultural Municipality, the center was established through a collaborative effort involving the Lumbini Cultural Municipality, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and The Coca-Cola Foundation.

The inauguration was officiated by Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Chet Narayan Acharya, who emphasized that this initiative marks a significant step toward making Lumbini a model of cleanliness in the region. He highlighted that with 1.3 to 1.4 million visitors each year, waste management has been a challenge, but this project promises a positive turnaround.

Chief Minister Acharya also clarified that waste management is a shared responsibility, not only of the Lumbini Cultural Municipality but also of the provincial government. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to ongoing collaboration and described the project as a source of pride for the province.

He further shared that adequate budgets have been allocated under the 'Greater Lumbini' concept and expressed confidence that the project will be successfully completed.

During the program, provincial assembly members Ratna Bahadur Khatri and Chandrakesh Gupta, along with Acting Mayor of Lumbini Cultural Municipality, Kalpana Harijan, expressed optimism that the establishment of the cleanliness center will facilitate easier waste management in the region.