Government of Nepal Endorses National Urban Policy 2081 to Enhance Urban Development
The Government of Nepal has officially endorsed the National Urban Policy 2081, a long-anticipated framework designed to address the challenges of urbanization and drive sustainable urban development. Approved by the Council of Ministers in late December, the policy introduces strategic measures aimed at creating a coordinated, efficient, and resilient urban landscape across the country. The policy outlines four primary strategies to tackle urbanization issues: establishing a comprehensive national urban system, expanding access to resilient urban infrastructure, mobilizing resources effectively for urban development, and strengthening governance and coordination mechanisms across all tiers of government.
A notable feature of the policy is the delineation of roles among federal, provincial, and local governments. The federal government will focus on crafting national policies, setting standards, and managing large-scale urban projects. Provincial governments are tasked with fostering economic centers and resilient settlements, while local governments will concentrate on urban planning, settlement development, and implementing projects that reflect local needs and aspirations.
The policy sets a target to elevate the urban infrastructure index of Nepal's urban areas to at least 50% by 2036. Achieving this goal involves restructuring the Urban Development Fund and leveraging diverse financial sources, including partnerships, green investments, and climate-focused funds. An Urban Development Act will also be introduced to regulate key aspects of urban growth, such as land use, infrastructure planning, and real estate management.
To ensure effective implementation, the policy emphasizes regular monitoring and evaluation. Progress will be assessed periodically by the Ministry of Urban Development, with five-year progress reviews and comprehensive ten-year evaluations. The National Urban Policy 2081 aims to address Nepal’s growing urbanization challenges by fostering sustainable and inclusive urban development, promoting better governance, and enhancing the quality of life for urban residents.
