Kathmandu- The government has finally introduced the 'National Urban Policy, 2024 (NUP),' marking the first urban development framework in nearly two decades. The policy empowers federal, provincial, and local governments to drive urban development in alignment with federal principles.

Passed by the Cabinet last week at the proposal of Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakash Man Singh, the policy resolves long-standing jurisdictional issues and sets ambitious goals, including raising urban infrastructure indicators to 50 percent by 2036, a 15 percent improvement.

The NUP aims to foster a prosperous urban system by expanding access to resilient infrastructure, optimizing resource mobilization, and enhancing intersectoral coordination and governance. It emphasizes creating economic hubs by interlinking cities, particularly provincial capitals, and advancing large-scale urban centers.

The policy prioritizes equitable access to urban infrastructure and services, integrated upgrades, and systematic asset management. It introduces innovative financial tools and partnerships across private, cooperative, and institutional sectors to ensure sustainable urban development.

Cities and settlements will be scientifically classified to implement minimum infrastructure standards, fostering the development of mega cities, smart cities, mountain cities, aero cities, food green cities, and economic corridors. Plans include multimodal transport systems to enhance connectivity and strategies to improve urban-rural links, aiming to uplift backward regions.

Provisions for modernizing land management include land readjustment, consolidation, partnerships, and land banks. The Urban Development Fund will be promoted as a green investment vehicle for eco-friendly projects. Real estate valuation will be standardized, and measures such as progressive taxation on vacant lots and oversized housing aim to curb unproductive investments.

The policy outlines plans for green urban spaces, renewable energy-based transport, and digital records of infrastructure and land. Waste management will focus on reduction, reuse, and recycling, supported by technical assistance and infrastructure.

Urban infrastructure will be categorized and assigned to relevant authorities for maintenance and management. Emergency maintenance procedures, including insurance, will reduce lifecycle costs. The policy aims to create digitally monitored urban environments, ensuring efficient land use and infrastructure management.