Gandaki Province Police and tourism entrepreneurs have held an interaction program in Pokhara aimed at enhancing security arrangements and creating a safer, more tourist-friendly environment in one of Nepal’s leading travel destinations.
Organized by the Pokhara Tourism Council, the discussion focused on key issues including tourism security challenges, trekking trail safety, hotel management, and strengthening coordination between police and tourism stakeholders.
Pokhara Tourism Council President Taranath Pahari emphasized that a safe environment is the foundation of sustainable tourism. He said continued dialogue and close cooperation between tourism businesses and security agencies are essential for building visitor confidence.
During the program, Krishna Prasad Acharya, President of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki, urged authorities to establish permanent security units along major trekking routes to ensure rapid rescue and emergency response for trekkers.
Similarly, Laxman Subedi, President of Hotel Association Pokhara, expressed concern over the growing practice of some hotels escorting guests on motorcycles, warning that it sends a negative message about tourism safety and called for greater police attention to the issue.
Gopi Bhattarai, Coordinator of Pokhara Tourism Year, praised the role played by Gandaki Province Police and Kaski Police in maintaining security, especially as the number of Indian visitors to Pokhara continues to increase.
Addressing the gathering, Gandaki Province Police Chief Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Birendra Gharti said police have intensified surveillance of suspicious activities, particularly involving individuals staying for extended periods in hotels and rented accommodations.
He urged hotel operators and property owners to verify the identity of all guests and immediately inform police of any suspicious activities to help maintain a secure tourism environment.
The event brought together representatives from tourism-related organizations, hotels, travel agencies, trekking companies, and businesses in the Lakeside area. Participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration between the private sector and security agencies to promote safe and sustainable tourism in Pokhara.
