Prime Minister Balen Shah Visits Astam Village, Locals Express Hopes for Development
Summary
Prime Minister Balen Shah’s surprise visit to Astam village near Pokhara has raised hopes among residents for long-awaited road and water projects. Locals say the hill settlement faces severe drinking-water shortages, poor irrigation and difficult road access despite its tourism potential.
Key Points
- Balen Shah made an unexpected visit to Astam village in Ward No. 6 of Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality, bringing excitement among local residents.
- Villagers said their biggest problems are drinking-water shortages, lack of irrigation and an extremely rough road to the village.
- Locals urged the government to prioritize blacktopping the road and building organized water and irrigation projects to support farming and tourism.
- Residents expressed hope that the new leadership will deliver better governance and tougher punishment for serious crimes.
