KATHMANDU: A protest demonstration was held at Maitighar in Kathmandu against the proposed cable car project at Mukkkumlung (Pathibhara), a major religious and cultural site in Taplejung.

Members of the Limbu community and environmental activists demanded an immediate halt to the construction, arguing that the project would damage the sacred Mundhumi heritage site and the area’s ecologically sensitive environment.

Under the banner of the “Save Mukkkumlung Campaign,” protesters stated that Mukkkumlung is a holy Mundhumi site for the Limbu people and followers of the Kirat religion, and that its originality and spiritual significance must be preserved. They also expressed concern that the construction of the cable car would require the cutting of thousands of trees, threatening local biodiversity and the natural ecosystem.

Demonstrators carried placards and banners with slogans such as “Our Mukkkumlung, Our Identity” and “We Don’t Need a Cable Car, Don’t Destroy Mukkkumlung.”

Representatives from various ethnic organizations and rights activists participated in the protest. As preparations for the cable car project in Taplejung intensify, opposition voices have been growing both in Kathmandu and at the local level. Protesters warned that they would launch stronger movements if their demands are not addressed.