Kanchanpur, Nepal – Bhimdutta Municipality in Kanchanpur has taken a major step toward sustainable urban development by installing solar streetlights along key roads, bringing a new glow to the city and improving public safety.
Under the “Bright Bhimdutta” campaign, the municipality has completed the first phase of installation, placing 115 solar-powered streetlights from Bhasi to Mahendranagar Bazaar along the East-West Highway. The Rs. 6.97 million project aims to reduce nighttime accidents, enhance security, and improve mobility for residents, especially students commuting early in the morning.
Municipal spokesperson Padamraj Awasthi said that the second phase, with an investment of Rs. 2.28 million, is already underway, installing 30 streetlights from Gaddachauki to Bhujela. The long-term plan includes setting up solar lighting across all 19 wards of the municipality.
The initiative is part of the Asian Development Bank-supported Regional Urban Development Project, which is also modernizing Mahendranagar Bazaar. Alongside road upgrades, 776 streetlights, including eight high-mast lights in the market area, have been installed. Additional works include relocating overhead power and telephone cables to improve the city’s aesthetics.
Local residents have welcomed the changes, saying the illuminated streets have made evening and early-morning travel safer and more comfortable. “Travel was difficult when roads were dark. Now, it’s easier and safer, but the municipality should ensure quick repairs if lights fail,” said local resident Ganesh Bhatt.
With better-lit streets and modern infrastructure, Bhimdutta Municipality is emerging as a safer, more vibrant urban center, setting an example for other municipalities in Nepal aiming for sustainable and people-friendly development.
