Kathmandu, Sept 3: Mahendra Maharjan of Thamel cannot sleep peacefully as night approaches. The reason for his lack of sleep is the loud noise pollution near the Chhaya Centre, where he resides. The night business in Thamel, which was closed due to the Covid epidemic, has resumed five months ago or Baisakh 1, 2081 BS.
After the government announced that Thamel and the Durbarmarg area would be open 24 hours, night business in Thamel began operating again. Business owners have established and implemented a code of conduct with the goal of making the night tourism business dignified and disciplined. Maharjan mentioned that despite the enforcement of the code of conduct by the business owners, noise pollution in Thamel area is mainly caused by the commotion from visitors who come to enjoy clubs and dance bars.
Locals claim that the biggest issue with Thamel’s night business is noise pollution. Maharjan, a local, stated that residents of Thamel and surrounding areas are disturbed by loud noises coming from hotels and clubs.
“We have repeatedly asked the clubs and hotels to address this issue, but there has been no response,” Maharjan said. He emphasized that not only locals but also hotel guests and tourists should contribute to keeping Thamel peaceful.
Tourism businessman Bhabiswar Sharma reported that even tourists have been complaining about health issues due to lack of sleep at night in hotels. Sharma, a former chairman of the Thamel Tourism Development Council, mentioned that locals, tourists, and businessmen are suffering because the code of conduct established for 24-hour operations is not being followed.
Sharma stated, “Tourists are complaining about noise pollution. They litter the streets with glass bottles after drinking. The loud music and late-night revelry are making it challenging for us to spend the night here.” He expressed disappointment that the relevant authorities have not taken action.
According to Sharma, hotels in Thamel have the capacity to accommodate and feed 36,000 tourists. Despite an increase in domestic and foreign tourists, the night tourism business remains disorganized. Sharma, who monitored the situation every two months during his tenure, claimed that such monitoring has decreased now.
Senior Superintendent of Police Binod Ghimire of the Kathmandu Valley Police Office stated that the police are working to address issues and provide security to businesses operating in Thamel and Durbarmarg areas at night to ensure peace for locals. “In terms of security, we have been constantly monitoring the situation,” he added.
Ghimire mentioned that while there is no criminal activity, complaints are received about people making noise while walking in road at night. “We have increased manpower in Thamel and Durbarmarg areas for security purposes,” he said. “We are actively searching for troublemakers.”
The Code of Conduct, approved by the Council, requires businesses offering entertainment after 10 pm to have sound control measures in place. They must also arrange transport for customers who are intoxicated, ensure uniform pricing, provide VAT bills, offer toilet facilities, and have security guards. All businesses must comply with tax regulations.
The code of conduct also emphasizes originality and cultural significance in performances by artists. Dance bars and venues for dance performances are required to provide healthy entertainment without displaying obscenity, while showcasing art and culture.
Badri Timalsina, the general secretary of the Thamel Tourism Development Council, noted that hoteliers and customers have not adhered to the code of conduct. The Council is monitoring compliance and working with the police to enhance security. “We are committed to fully implementing the code of conduct. We urge business owners to follow the guidelines and cooperate,” Timalsina stated. #Thamel #pollution #nepal #tourism
Madhu Shahi/RSS
