Solar Backup System Installed at Khayarkandra Community Homestays
Kanchanpur, June 9: The Khayarkandra community homestays in Shuklaphanta Municipality–3, established to promote eco-friendly tourism and improve the income of rural communities, have recently been equipped with solar-powered backup systems.
The solar energy facility has been installed to ensure uninterrupted services for visitors staying at the homestays.
A total of eight homestays have received the support through the joint efforts of Shuklaphanta Municipality, the Connect Project, and Himali Prakriti. The backup systems installed in the homestays are expected to benefit both operators and guests.
The project cost Rs 759,000 for the installation of solar backup systems in all households operating homestays.
Puran Singh Dhagunna, Technical Supervisor at Himali Prakriti, said the new facility would help promote renewable energy while making homestay operations more efficient and increasing local income.
“Importantly, the initiative supports the promotion of eco-friendly rural tourism,” he said.
Khusiram Chaudhary, one of the homestay operators, said power outages would no longer affect their services.
“Previously, visitors faced difficulties during power cuts. Now, we can provide lighting, fans, mobile charging facilities and other essential services round the clock,” he said, adding that the facility has improved the overall experience for tourists.
Another homestay operator, Tikuram Dagaura, said service delivery has become more reliable with the installation of the solar backup system.
Deputy Mayor of Shuklaphanta Municipality, Kalpana Panta, said solar energy would not only improve homestay services but also help reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment.
“It is beneficial for advancing the concept of sustainable tourism,” she said.
The homestays, located near the Shuklaphanta National Park, offer visitors a blend of culture, nature and tourism experiences. Guests are served traditional Tharu cuisine and entertained with indigenous dances and songs. Both domestic and international tourists visit these community-run homestays.
(RSS)
