KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ Evening Economic Briefing—a concise roundup of the day’s key financial activities in Nepal. Here’s today’s business news summary:

Reconstruction Begins in Earthquake-Hit Area: Home Minister Lekhak
Reconstruction efforts have officially begun in areas severely affected by the 2015 earthquake, as announced by Home Minister Lekhak. The government is focusing on rebuilding infrastructure, homes, and public facilities in the worst-hit districts. This initiative is part of a broader effort to restore normalcy and improve resilience against future disasters. The government has allocated significant funds for the reconstruction process, with a focus on providing safer housing for residents. Minister Lekhak emphasized the importance of rebuilding not just structures, but also the community spirit, ensuring that affected people regain their livelihoods and safety.

Kaligandaki Gorge Hydropower Project Secures Financial Closure
The Kaligandaki Gorge Hydropower Project has reached financial closure, with a banking consortium led by Laxmi Sunrise Bank committing Rs 29.63 billion, or 75% of the project’s estimated cost of Rs 39.51 billion. Laxmi Sunrise Bank said in a statement that the consortium has signed a facilities agreement with the Kaligandaki Gorge Hydropower Pvt. Ltd. to finance the 180 MW Peaking Run-of-the-River (PROR) project. Currently under construction in Mustang and Myagdi districts, the project is expected to play a key role in Nepal’s renewable energy sector.

Climate Change Impact on Food Security and Nutrition to Women
Climate change is increasingly threatening food security and nutrition, particularly for women, according to recent studies. Erratic weather patterns and natural disasters have disrupted agricultural production, making it harder for families, especially in rural areas, to access adequate food. Women, who are often responsible for food production, face even greater challenges. Climate-related stresses, such as droughts and floods, have a disproportionate impact on women’s livelihoods, health, and nutrition. Experts urge the government and NGOs to implement gender-sensitive policies that enhance climate resilience and ensure food security for vulnerable communities.

Installing power transmission poles in full swing in Butwal
The work on installing monopoles for the transmission line on the road section from Yogikuti Chowk to Horizon Chowk in Kalikapath in Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City-11 is in full swing. The tower (with four legs) of the 132 kV double circuit transmission line from Butwal to Motipur is being replaced with a single-legged monopole along the Yogikuti-Horizon Chowk road section, according to the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). The foundation for the monopole, which will replace four towers standing along the approximately one-kilometre stretch of the road, is currently under construction. The foundation work will be completed within 15 days, said the NEA. The monopoles have been supplied to the construction site. The two monopoles of 30 metres each and two monopoles of 32 metres each will be installed along the road section.

Panauti Municipality closes three mining industries operating illegally
Three mining industries operating illegally in Panauti Municipality of Kavrepalanchowk district have been closed. After various criticisms about the illegal mines being operated in collusion with the local level and people’s representatives surfaced, Panauti Municipality on Thursday closed three mining industries operating illegally within the municipality. Mayor of Panauti Municipality Ram Sharan Bhandari said that out of 10 mining industries approved by the Department of Mines and Geology within Panauti Municipality, Diamond Stone Mining Industries Pvt. Ltd. in Panauti Municipality-2, Diplakshmi Aggregate Pvt. Ltd. and Bhaleshwor Gravels Stone Industry in Ward No. 12 have been closed.

Milk Chilling Machine Bought by Cooperative Lies Unused
A milk chilling machine purchased by a cooperative in Nepal is sitting unused, causing concern among local dairy farmers. The machine, intended to improve milk storage and quality, was bought with the goal of boosting local dairy production. However, due to logistical issues and a lack of proper maintenance, the equipment remains idle, preventing farmers from benefiting from its use. Local authorities and the cooperative’s leadership are being urged to address the issue by ensuring that the machine is put to use efficiently to help improve the dairy sector and support rural farmers.