On 14th November, 2015 government of
Nepal announced that it will be distributing fuel wood to pacify the hardship
of acute fuel crisis faced by Nepali due to the ongoing “unofficial” blockage,
political protest and disturbances in the major transit points. This benevolent
gesture from the government could perhaps be the biggest blow to the nation touted
as “hydro energy power house of South Asia”. Distribution of Fuel wood as a
tool to response to energy security re-exposes Nepal preparedness and
commitment for the sustainable development of its economy. Similarity, Myriad of
frustrated, and fatigued consumer lining up for days with a hope to get half
filled cylinders and fuel tanks is a tight slap to the rhetoric and hallow narratives that Nepal has “potential”
to exploit 42 GW of hydro energy. This is the same rhetoric which we as a
nation have been humming since mid-sixties, but till date not even 1% of the “potential”
has been executed into reality.
With our myopic view and short lived memory we
have time and again fall short to learn
critical lesson from our or others past mistakes,
but this time it should be different. This time stakes are too high, with the triple
whammy of twin earthquakes, Madesh unrest and trade blockage, Nepali economy is
almost to its keens. Some unofficial estimate suggests the economy has taken a negative
toll of almost 50% of its GDP this year. Before it is too late, the government should
immediately launch projects and polices that could be swiftly executed or be
materially exhibited. Be it merely on paper
but the parliament immediately endorsing or introducing new acts and regulations
to impetus the economy, will symbolize commitment and assist to aid the crisis
of confidence Nepali economy is facing. This time, destitution Nepal is facing
should be used as a catalyst to ignite long overdue second phase to economic liberation,
and most importantly endorsement of Reconstruction Authority Act.
Execution is the key. Let us not waste time drafting new policies and white paper, just start executing. Noting is perfect, first build things and then start deciding how could it have been improved from the policy end.
Government and Policies markers should need to start lean...
Government and Policies markers should need to start lean...
