Every day, I face the frustrating challenge of crossing the broken traffic lights at various places in Kathmandu valley, these problems are persisted since last several years. Despite repeated inquiries on social media and a promise from the Department of Roads to fix it at the earliest, they remain non-functional as we approach mid-August. This failure not only inconveniences daily commuters like me but also poses a significant safety risk – my son’s school route passes through this intersection, and without working traffic lights, I have to personally escort him to ensure his safety.
Kathmandu’s municipality had ambitious plans last year to instal traffic lights at 36 locations across the city. However, these plans were left incomplete, and traffic lights are not even on this year’s agenda. While crossing the street, you might notice a newly constructed, colorful sidewalk, but even this improvement is flawed – a random electric pole stands obstructively in the middle.
Further along, after a 700-metre struggle, there’s a small pocket park equipped with exercise sets. Yet, this park is often closed, leaving children like my son waiting for a chance to play.
Within a one-kilometre radius in Kathmandu, it becomes evident that the city’s infrastructure lacks a clear purpose or direction. Who is this city being built for? The government appears focused on building a city for the strong, creating structures that cater to those who already have the ability to navigate them.
But what about the rest of us? Parents should be able to walk or cycle to bring their children to school safely. Elderly citizens should be able to walk to their temples without difficulty. If a city is built to accommodate the needs of children, the disabled, and the elderly, it will naturally be more accessible for everyone. Instead, we are left to question – who is this city really serving?
Nepal is experiencing rapid urbanisation, with cities like Kathmandu and other big cities expanding both in population and infrastructure. This urban growth has led to an increase in energy demands, primarily met by fossil fuels, thus contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions. Traffic congestion, inefficient public transport, and reliance on private vehicles further exacerbate the carbon output.
A Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) has been introduced to reimagine and implement transport management in a more holistic and people-centric way, drawing inspiration from practices adopted around the world that can be tailored for Kathmandu Valley and other major cities in Nepal.
Instead of merely focusing on increasing road capacity by adding more vehicles or constructing additional parking lots, this plan takes into account a broader range of factors relevant to these cities, such as population density, average travel distances, and journey lengths.
The primary goal of the plan is to shift the focus from car-centric design to people-centric mobility. It aims to make urban transportation more efficient and accessible by prioritizing how people can move more easily and conveniently, rather than simply accommodating more cars. In the context of Kathmandu and other urban centres in Nepal, this approach emphasises the promotion of alternative energy sources and non-motorised transport options, such as walking and cycling, which are vital for creating a more sustainable and livable urban environment.
By encouraging the use of public transportation, enhancing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, and integrating renewable energy solutions, the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan seeks to address specific challenges such as traffic congestion and air pollution. It aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve the overall quality of life for city residents.
However, the success of this forward-thinking approach is hindered by the mindset of political groups and city planners, who may not be fully open to embracing these changes. Resistance to shifting away from car-centric development, coupled with a lack of political will, poses significant obstacles to implementing these sustainable solutions. Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort to build awareness, engage stakeholders, and foster a shared vision for a more sustainable and resilient urban future for Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal.
A SUMP offers significant economic benefits, particularly for cities like Kathmandu. By reducing traffic congestion, SUMPs increase productivity and lower transportation costs for individuals and businesses. Improved air quality from reduced emissions can decrease healthcare costs and boost overall public health, leading to a more productive workforce.
SUMPs also enhance property values in areas with improved mobility options, generating higher tax revenues and attracting investment. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic in pedestrian-friendly zones, stimulating the local economy. Job creation is another advantage, both during the construction of infrastructure and through the long-term operation and maintenance of public transport systems.
Energy efficiency is a key benefit, with SUMPs promoting alternative energy sources and non-motorised transport, leading to cost savings on fuel and reducing the national dependency on fossil fuels. Furthermore, cities with sustainable transport systems are more attractive to investors and tourists, contributing to economic growth.
By fostering resilience to economic shocks, such as fluctuating fuel prices, and reducing the impact of climate change, SUMPs help build a more stable and sustainable economy. In sum, implementing a SUMP leads to long-term economic growth, making cities more livable, competitive, and economically vibrant.
(Dhakal is founder of Story Cycle, he can be reached at saurav@storycycle.com)
