Crisis of confidence

On 14^th 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...