Foundation Stone Laid for Khamlalung Health Post in Terhathum with Indian Assistance

The foundation stone for the Khamlalung Health Post building at Aathrai Rural Municipality, Terhathum, was laid on Friday, marking a significant step towards improving healthcare infrastructure in the region. The ceremony was jointly officiated by Ms. Sita Gurung, Member of Parliament (House of Representatives, Constituency-1, Terhathum), Mr. Dil Kumar Pahim, Chairperson of Aathrai Rural Municipality, and Shri Avinash Kumar Singh, First Secretary at the Embassy of India, Kathmandu.

The health post is being constructed with financial assistance from the Government of India under the Nepal-India Development Cooperation initiative. The project, with a cost of NPR 35.40 million, is categorized as a High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) and is the first of its kind in Terhathum District.

The double-storied building will include an emergency ward, maternity ward, general ward, administrative section, and other essential facilities. The project is being implemented through Aathrai Rural Municipality, ensuring local engagement and oversight.

Speaking at the event, Hon’ble Member of Parliament Ms. Gurung and Mr. Pahim expressed gratitude for India’s continued developmental support, highlighting the project’s potential to provide enhanced healthcare services to the local population. The initiative reflects the strong partnership between India and Nepal, emphasizing mutual cooperation in priority sectors.

Since 2003, India has completed 490 HICDPs in Nepal, spanning various sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure, out of a total of 563 undertaken. In Koshi Province alone, 91 such projects have been implemented.

Additionally, India has gifted 1,009 ambulances and 300 school buses to Nepal on occasions such as Indian Independence Day and Republic Day, with Koshi Province receiving 146 ambulances (including one for the Khamlalung Health Post) and 48 school buses.

The collaboration underlines the robust and multi-sectoral cooperation between India and Nepal. The Embassy of India noted that the implementation of HICDPs continues to bolster Nepal’s infrastructure development efforts, aiming for impactful outcomes in healthcare, education, and rural upliftment.

The Khamlalung Health Post, once operational, is expected to serve as a vital healthcare hub, addressing the medical needs of the people of Terhathum and beyond.