Koshi Tappu
A Birdwatching Paradise
BUD
D
HA
Issue # 26 Nov. 2016
w w w . b u d d h a a i r . c o m
Mythical Mithila A weekend trailing the Ramayana in and around Janakpur
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Namaste and welcome on board Buddha Air! It was on 11th October 1997 that we flew our first flight – an epic Everest Experience flight to view the beautiful Himalayas, on a Hawker Beechcraft. Over the years, as we gained your support and trust, we added more destinations and an ATR (ATR 42 & 72) fleet to provide you a comfortable journey. Thank you for being with us for almost two decades. Janakpur is a destination of an epic and legendary history, which is explored in our cover story, “Mythical Mithila.” Also, read an exclusive interview with the Director General of Civil Aviation of Nepal (CAAN), Mr. Sanjiv Gautam. He talks about the plans of establishing new international airports in Nepal and the role of CAAN. The cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu are slowly being reconstructed after the earthquake. Read “Recovering the National Treasures” to learn of the efforts undertaken by the government, organizations and the local communities to restore the sites. Besides these, you will also read about the scenario of airline business in Nepal, travelling to Manang, birdwatching opportunities at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, and the local food Kathmandu Valley has in offer for your taste buds. We want to hear from you. Send us your feedback, suggestions and articles to make your journey even better. We will be happy to receive stories and testimonials from our readers. Thank you for choosing to fly with us. We hope you have a pleasant flight.
Birendra B. Basnet Managing Director, Buddha Air
In-flight magazine Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal e-mail: yatra@buddhaair.com Published by: Buddha Air Pvt. Ltd., Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal
Editorial Board Khagendra Bahadur Basnet Subarna Kharel UK Shrestha Ratna Rai D.K. Karna
Copy Editor Kabita Thapa
contents
Issue November 2016
cover story 16
Mythical Mithila
18
Chhath in Janakpur 24
Local Eateries to Look out For 3 2 Page Turner 1 2 Sky is the Limit Sanjiv Gautam, DG at CAAN
Recovering the National Treasures
6
interview 28
Koshi Tappu
A Birdwatching Paradise 14
Introducing an exclusive boutique with varieties of traditional wear in Kathmandu, Nepal! A & A Boutique aims to offer different varieties of traditional wear by providing an astonishing collection of Kashmiri Suits, Pashmina Suits, Cotton Suits, Designer Suits, Jaipuri Sarees, Banarasi Sarees, and Designer Sarees of different ranges!
g]kfnL x\ofÂŞ\u/df ljb]zL hxfhsf] dd{t
44
Jawalakhel, Lalitpur Buddha Air complex
April 25
Recovering the National Treasures A year and a half after the earthquake, the damaged historical sites still require much attention
A
6
s days pass after the earthquake, things have begun to gradually fall into place. Houses are being rebuilt as people move on with their daily lives. Even the occasional jolts that reminded people of the fateful day seem to have dwindled down to a twitch, hardly felt by anyone expect for the most cautious. Indrachowk, in central Kathmadu that was barren during the earthquake has come back
7
April 25
Bhaktapur Durbar Square on its feet, always crowded with shopkeepers, shoppers
the earthquake was to rescue the people who were
and porters alike. It seems as though there never was
buried under rubble. Even while digging, people were
an earthquake, if only it weren’t for the gaping, empty
equally cautious about their heritages.” says Alok
spaces where ancient temples used to be.
Siddhi Tuladhar, Cultural Anthropologist and founder
After the April 2015 earthquake that killed 8000
of ImPACT! Productions who led the documentation
people and destroyed thousands
process during the rebuilding of
of houses, the Department of
Hanuman Dhoka in Basantapur.
Archeology has stated that a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley. The rest have sustained partial damages. The heritages that were damaged included world heritage sites such as the three Durbar Squares in Patan, Basantapur and Bhaktapur; Swayambhu Stupa, Boudha Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. “The
8
first
priority
right
after
After the April 2015 earthquake a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley
Locals around the heritage sites played a big role in helping to retrieve the fallen artifacts from temples and heritage sites. In places such as Bungamati where the temple of Rato Machchhindra had
completely
collapsed,
many volunteers helped to clear out the rubble within days of the
earthquake.
Organizations
working for heritage conservation such as the Kathmandu Valley Preservations Nations
Trust
and
Education,
United Scientific
Hanumandhoka Durbar Square
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) were one of the
to help with the construction. One of the best examples
first bodies to respond, soon after, the Department of
of local people’s involvement in reconstructing heritage
Archeology and National Reconstruction Authority begun
sites can be seen in Boudha. Only a year and a half later,
to work out plans to rebuild the sites. But things have not
the Boudha stupa has been completely rebuilt. While in
been so easy. A lot of documentation and research is
Swayambhu, the Swayambhu Mahaguthi is helping to
required to make sure that the heritage sites be rebuilt in
reconstruct the damages sustained around the stupa
the same traditional way to help keep its historical value.
area by mobilizing funds collected from individuals and
Thus the restoration process has been slow.
foreign organizations. Another historical and religious site, the Pashupatinath temple has received donations from
Three Steps Forward
the Indian Government for the restoration of the main
But despite all the destruction, the earthquake seems
temples as well as its surrounding areas.
to have had a positive impact on the cultural heritage
The earthquake has also revealed surprising details from
sites. Many people have become aware about the need to preserve these heritage sites and the local
Conservators from Austria as they work on the reconstruction of the monuments which was damaged by the earthquake at Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur
history,
while
digging up the remains of
Kasthmandap
in
Basantapur Durbar Square,
bodies have also united
it was revealed that the
with
to
foundation had nine holes
rebuild their own heritages.
dug in the form of a religious
Currently, the Government
mandala. “This fact was
of Nepal is providing Rs two
predicted
million to local committees
almost ten years ago.�
the
sentiment
by
a
priest
9
April 25
Metal frame supports the earthquake damaged Buddhist temple at Swoyambunath Temple
10
says Alok Tuladhar, “These religious
point in history. This involvement
values are the things we need to
of local manpower will also help
keep in mind while rebuilding. We cannot forget their cultural and historical importance.” he adds. Tuladhar stresses the need for the historical methods and resources to be used during the reconstruction which
means
steel
beams,
concrete and metal infrastructures cannot be added to the structures. While there have been additions of such in small scales, it has only been added to help strengthen the structures without compromising
After the April 2015 earthquake a total of 750 heritage sites were damaged in 20 districts of Nepal, out of which, most of the 133 sites that have been destroyed completely fall inside the Kathmandu valley
on the face of the architecture. In
to
preserve
the
sentimental
attachment that people have towards the sites. One Step Back Although the rebuilding process has gradually begun, many issues regarding the use of concrete and the question of quality control has started to emerge. The Government of Nepal has been pledged to receive 4.2 billion rupees for the heritage
reconstruction
which
will be channelized through the National Reconstruction Authority
fact, restoring the heritage sites just as they used to be is
to various reconstruction processes with the approval of
not impossible. Many artisans from around Kathmandu
the Department of Archeology. However, the Department
have teamed up with cultural experts like Mukunda
of Archeology has given approval of the reconstruction
Acharya and Sanker Shrestha who are working to
projects to the lowest bidders. This has raised a question
remake the traditional structures. Kathmandu still has a
of quality. “We cannot build our heritage sites like we
lot of artisans who are skilled in the traditional arts such as
build bridges.” comments Tuladhar, “They are not just a
wood carving, metal craft and other handicrafts. Such
technical construction, they are a social construction.”
skills have been handed down to the artisans from their
In the case of Rani Pokhari, the memorial pond built by
ancestors who probably had rebuild temples at some
King Pratap Singh Malla 400 years ago, the use of concrete pillars to rebuild the Jamaleshwor Mahadev Temple also known as Balgopaleswor Temple in the middle of the pond was heavily protested and even made buzz on the social media. For now, the project has been halted until the problem gets sorted out. As legend has it, when Rani Pokhari was built by the king, he collected water from various holy bodies in Nepal and India to be added to the pond. “This legend is the reason why Rani Pokhari is precious in regards to any other pond.” says Tuladhar. Such legends reflect the value of the heritage sites. The government has set a timeline of 7 years to complete the restoration. As time goes on, more people have begun to take notice of the rebuilding process that has been going on. What we need to realize is that the heritages is a common treasure. Sure the government and other authoritative bodies may be carrying out the projects but it is the insight of the community and the people that really matter. After all, if the community takes the lead to rebuild each one of the 750 heritage sites, Nepal’s treasures will be rebuilt in no time.
11
Book
Page Turner They say that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page. But grab a book and you travel through the universe. They also make great companions during long journeys and hours of waiting in transition. Heres a list of the latest books to keep you company on any occasion.
1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by JK
personal, heartwarming and an honest
Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany
account of the actor’s life in the spotlight
Nineteen years after the death of
and his ordeal of dealing with his son’s
Voldemort, Harry works at the Ministry of
illness.
Magic and is the father of three children. As Albus Severus Potter, Harry’s youngest
3. Abiram Baburam by Anil Thapa
son struggles with the family legacy he
Biography of one of Nepal’s most
travels to the past with the help of a Time
prominent politician, Dr. Baburam
turner. Now Harry has to relive the past in
Bhattarai, Awiram Baburam tells the story
more ways than one as Harry and Albus
of how Bhattarai got into communism,
try to fix it to the way it was. Based on the
how he got involved in the Maoist protest
play by Jack Thorne, Harry Potter and the
and his disputes with Prachanda and
Cursed Child is the eighth edition of the
controversies that most Nepalese are
Harry Potter series.
curious about. taking the biography on a more sentimental level, Abiram Baburam
2. The Kiss of Life by Emraan Hashmi and
also talks about Bhattarai’s childhood and school days.
Bilal Siddiqi The Kiss of Life shows Bollywood star, Emraan
4. Never Give Up: Jack Ma in his own words by Suk Lee
Hashmi known for his eccentric movie roles playing the real-
The founder of Alibaba, Jack Ma’s rags to
life role as a father of a son
riches story is told in his own words through
battling with cancer. The book
more than 200 thought provoking and
is a memoir of his life through
candid quotes recorded by Suk Lee. Ma,
his teenage days to becoming
who has a massive influence in China
the controversial yet charming
has the world honoring him as one of the
actor today. The book is
geniuses of the 20th century global tech
world and this book provides an insight
regarding market trends and market
into the mind of one of the world’s most
operations. And although the share
successful business magnates.
market is dynamic, it’s good to get a heads up on where things are heading.
5. Sallipir by Nayan Raj Pandey
Sallipir is the seventh novel written by
7. Fulani by Khagendra Lamichhanne
author Nayan Raj Pandey. Unlike his
Fulani is the debut anthology of seven
previous works that are mostly set in the
short stories written by actor and director
terai region, this book is set in the Khumbu
Khagendra Lamichhanne known for his
region up in the Himalayas and tells the
roles in Talakjung vs. Tulke and Pashupati
story of its people and events. The story
Prasad. Set in rural Nepal, the book tells
revolves around three generations of a
the story of rural Nepal and the hardships
Sherpa community that reveals the way
that people face while living in harsh
of life of the Khumbu people. Friendship,
conditions. It reflects the harsh realities of
father-daughter relationship and social
life out in the villages.
issues are the novel’s highlights.
6. Share bata Karodpati by Rabindra Bhattarai
Money is a tricky game and those who learn how to get around it succeed in running things their way. But that is not always the case. One wrong move and things can go into a downward spiral Shayerbata Karodpati by Rabindra Bhattarai will act as a guide for investors
13
Nature
A Birdwatching Paradise Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
O
ccupying an area of 175 square kilometers, the
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is the smallest national park in the Terai plains of Nepal. It lies on the floodplains of the Sapta Koshi River in south-eastern Terai. The grassland area was gazetted in 1976 to preserve the dwindling populations of the wild buffalo and was declared a Ramsar site in 1987. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides shelter to 485 bird species. Flocks of migratory birds visit the reserve during the winter and spring – from October to March, the perfect months for Birdwatching. Some migratory birds from Siberia and Tibet
14
Black-hooded Oriole (Oriolus xanthornus) sfnf]6fps]
;'gr/L
Black crown night heron af“s]
Lesser Adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus)
as'Nnf
Swallow uf}+ynL
e'“8Lkmf]/ u?8
Citrine Wagtail a];f/]
l6sl6s]
15
Nature
Taking the early morning flight on Buddha Air from Kathmandu should get you to Biratnagar in 35 minutes. Arrival at the airport and departure to Koshi Tappu. Booking / Ticketing l Tel 01-5542494 / l Online www.buddhaair.com l Mobile App l Nearest travel agency Holiday Package l Tel 01-5521015, Ext: 119 l www.buddhaholidays.co
Cormorant hn]jf
Wood Sandpiper jg Red vented Bulbul h'/]nL
16
;'8;'l8of
Pied Kingfisher l5/la/]
df6Lsf]/]
fly to the reserve during winter. The Koshi barrage and the Koshi River are the best places to spot them. There are records of rare and endangered bird species like Bengal Florican, Sarus Crane, Black-necked Stork, Red-necked Falcon, etc. But it’s not only birds that represent the reserve. The river is home to mugger crocodiles, turtles, fishes and Gangetic Dolphin. Animals like Blue Bull, Spotted Dees, Wild Boars and Hog Deer can spotted roaming around the reserve. Plan your trip to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Getting there is convenient – fly to Biratnagar and from the airport, use local transportation that gets you directly to the reserve. If you prefer a scenic route, you can take a bus from Kathmandu which could take up to Dove 9's'/
10 hours.
17
Cover Story
Mythical
Mithila
A weekend trailing the Ramayana in and around Janakpur
I
t is believed that the events leading up to the epic battle of Mahabharata had resulted in the disintegration of the ancient kingdom of Mithila. For long the kingdom revered as site of Sita’s prenuptial life and subsequent marriage to Ram, became
a mere memory - a myth among devotees. Much later, around the 16th and 17th centuries, owing to the Mughal takeover of Ayodha, Hindu sages began journeying northwards into the thick jungles of the Terai in search of Janakpur, the kingdom ruled by Sita’s adoptive father Janak. A new settlement rose around the discoveries of artifacts by the first-arriving sages – remnants of a time when gods walked among men. According to the Ramayana, during the twenty-third generation of the Videh dynasty a great drought afflicted the Mithila kingdom. In an effort to appease the god of rain, then King Janak performed a great sacrifice. Upon turning the soil emerged a baby lying in the furrow. King Janak named the baby Sita and raised as her own; the rest is history. Although the story of Ramayana is ubiquitous for most Nepalis, many of us are still unware of the hidden gems of Janakpur that would intrigue even the biggest skeptics. A weekend in Janakpur is a great way to rediscover the Ramayana - to immerse in the pious livelihoods that thrive here.
19
Cover Story
Devotees doing parikarma of Janaki temple Day 1: The Story of the Bow
a southbound bus to Jaleshwor, close to the
When Sita became a maiden, King Janak
Indian border. Here you’ll find one of the most
created a challenge to secure her the most
sacred Shiva temples of the region. Women
fitting suitor. A bow belonging to Lord Shiva that
from all walks of life fill the grounds of the temple
had been bestowed to the protection of the
during special occasions to be blessed with
kingdom became the deciding vote. It is said
water from a pool that is believed to be holy.
that 50,000 men were required to lift the bow
A visit to Dhanush Mandir is then the
into the palace complex, whereas Ram not
appropriate way to conclude the first day of
only lifted the recurve without struggle, but also
your travel. The temple complex lies some 15 km
broke it into three pieces while stringing it. One
north of Janakpurdham and is said to be the site
piece is said to have flown towards the sky, one
where the bow piece that entered hell is slowly
fell on earth and the final piece went deep into
protruding out of the earth. Here you will find
hell. It was through this display of strength Ram
the most surreal and intriguing corroboration
was revealed to the kingdom as the Lord of the
of the Ramayana. An ancient tree sits within
heavens, hell and earth.
the main temple where rock formation appear
The
town
of
Janakpurdham
sprawls
outwards from a concentrated mesh of houses
along the roots. Locals say that the formation has been growing outwards slowly.
around the world-renowned Janaki Mandir. For
Back in Janakpurdham your first evening
this reason the best way to spend your first day
can be spent along the tranquil waters of Maha
in Janakpur is to venture out of town and visit
Gangasagar, where regular nocturnal aratis
temples that lie at distance. Starting with the
are a must see. Maha Gangasagar is the largest
bow pieces takes you out of the main town
of the many ponds that dot the locality and is
which is also an opportunity to visit other places.
connected to Dhanushsagar by a channel.
Dhanushsagar, a pristine pond located
Locals believe that dipping in Gangasagar is
at a few minutes walk from the main town
equivalent to a dip in the actual Ganga.
center, is a great introduction to a devotee’s
On the Southeastern corner of Gangasagar
life in Janakpur. The pond lies opposite the Ram
lies the newly constructed Bhootnath Temple
Mandir and is said to be the site where one-third
complex, which has a beautiful garden to stroll
of the broken bow landed. Dhanushsagar is a
through before heading back to the hotel.
site of daily ablutions for devotees and presents the strong bond between water and Madhesis.
20
Day 2: Holy Matrimony
From the pond, walk over to Zero Mile,
The coupling of Ram and Sita through
the local bus park, where you can hop onto
matrimony is seen as an important part of
Ram Sita Vibah Mandap
Inside view of Vibah Mandap
Janakpur’s ancient history. The divine couple
boasts of carved marble interiors and are home
is most celebrated within the famous Janaki
to statuettes of Sita, Ram and his half-brothers.
Mandir. Built in Hindu Rajput architectural style
The best time to visit the temple is early
with influences from Islamic traditions, the
Saturdays around 8 am. Devotees and priests
temple was commissioned by an Indian queen
pray and chant in unison till the statues inside
who spared no expense in marking the exact
are revealed and blessing is offered soon after.
site where Sita lived with her monarch father.
Evenings are also enchanting as devotees
It is believed that the sage Mahanth Surya
light lamps and park themselves around the
Kishor Das discovered a golden statue of Sita
temple complex. There is also a small collection
where the temple sits and forms the heart of the
of kinetic exhibits that retell the story of Sita’s
town. Its bright white walls and domes adorned
adoption and early life. This museum is located
with red and green colors are brilliant under the
to the southwest of the main sanctum and is
sun. The main sanctum in the inner courtyard
open throughout the day.
Cover Story
Jaleshwor Mahadev Temple Adjoined to the Janaki Mandir is Bibah
temple. Inside, life size marble statues of Ram
Mandap, which marks the site of the divine
and Sita are found along with other noted
marriage. Designed by a Kathmandu-based
characters of the Ramayana.
architect and built under official patronage in
Close by, across the main road from the
1970s, this Mandap is constructed in pagoda
Mandap lies the Rangamanch. A vast open
style of Kathmandu Valley and looks somewhat
ground (locally known as the bahra biga) is a
incongruous,
the
site for mass gathering and celebration on the
magnificent Mughal-Rajput specimen of built
day of Bibha Panchami, the day when Ram
form. However, some of the carved marble
and Sita’s matrimonial union
seating
right
next
to
columns of the Mandap are from the same
For the afternoon, travel to the Janakpur
quarry in Central India from where materials
Railway
Station,
Nepal’s
only
station
for
were procured for the construction of the main
locomotive travel. The station is currently
Mithila Painting
Souvenirs prepared by local lady
28
Sculpturing
Dhanushadham Temple Flying with Buddha Air from Kathmandu to Janakpur should get you there in 25 minutes. Arrival at the airport and check in to the hotel. Booking / Ticketing l Tel 01-5542494 / l Online www.buddhaair.com l Mobile App l Nearest travel agency Holiday Package l Tel 01-5521015, Ext: 119 l www.buddhaholidays.co
Parshuram Temple complex on the way to Dhanush Mandir undergoing construction but can offer a
social cause is to visit the Janakpur Women’s
glimpse of the Indian railway system that has
Development Committee (JDWC).
influenced all of the subcontintent.
Established in 1992, JDWC has revived the
For the remainder of evening, Janakpur’s
Mithila artistic traditions (which is also linked
many street vendors and other temples provide
to the Ramayana) to benefit women of the
great engagement and sampling of local eats.
region. Using a variety of media, they export and sell traditional Mithila paintings, ceramics,
Day 3: Souvenirs with a Social Cause
mirrors, printed fabrics and much more. JDWC is
Being a pilgrimage site, most shops in
located in the midst of peaceful mango groves
Janakpurdham do not cater to tourists. Other
close by the airport. It has a beautiful courtyard
than basic necessities and ingredients for
decorated with wall reliefs that are otherwise
rituals and offerings little can be found in the
not visible in other parts of Janakpur.
way of souvenirs. A great alternative to taking home Janakpur’s heritage while supporting a
23
Festivities
Chhath in Janakpur
W
ater plays a central role in the lives of the Madhesis. In Janakpur alone there are countless cisterns that
sustain local livelihoods and facilitate daily as well as occassional rituals. This bond between life-giving water and people in the Southern plains is most pronounced during certain times of the year.
25
Festivities
Besides Dashain (Dashera) and
eaten. On the second day, people
Tihar (Deepawali), one of the most
observe fasting for the entire day (or
auspicious times for Madhesis is the
as long as 36 hours) and worship the
Chhath festival. Named so for its
earth.
timing on the 6th day in the month of Kartik, the festival sees women from all walks of life, along with their families, offer salutations to the rising as also to the setting sun. Through a rigorous couple of days men and women worship the sun god Surya and his female form Chhat Maiya by congregating at holy waterbodies. The rituals and processes of the festival begin a few days earlier and are very demanding. It begins with purification and fasting. Water
Visitng Janakpur during Chhath can be an insightful moment for tourists who seek to understand the way practices differ from the other ethnic communities and geographies.
becomes an important motif in the entire process. In fact many
On the third day, which falls on
followers tend to spend much of their
the Kartik Shukla Shashti, evening
observance of the Festival along a
offerings are made to the setting
pond or a lake.
sun. The day is used for preparing
On the first day of Chhath, people
the Prasad and the whole family
take a dip in the closest revered
accompanies the devotee to the
waterbody and bring home water
waterbody. Once the offering is
to prepare offering. During this day
made, people celebrate with cultural
homes and surroundings are cleaned
programs, music and dance. Folk
thoroughly and only one meal is
songs sung in this time are about the culture, social structure, history and mythology of Mithila and its vicinity. A final activity is the late lighting of oil lamps that are kept under a canopy of sugarcane ticks that symbolize the human body. On the final day of Chhath, devotees along with their families and friends go the waterbody before sunrise and make the final offering to the rising sun. This concludes the long fast taken on the second day of the Festival. Beyond the large number of people dressed in colorful saris and their picturesque movements in and
around shallow waters, the rigorous processes has much to do with yogic understanding of the body as conductive channels of energy. Process and rituals observed prepare the devotees’ bodies to be in sync with the solar radiation of the sun and thus create the necessary grounding for cosmic solar energy infusion. Visitng Janakpur during Chhath can be an insightful moment for tourists who seek to understand the way practices differ from the other ethnic communities and geographies.
27
Interview
28
Sky is the Limit Sanjiv Gautam, Director General at Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) talks to Buddha Air about Nepali skies and its future plans to establish three new international airports.
Tell us about your journey in the aviation sector of Nepal. It has been 26 years since I started
basically like a body with two heads, one to check regulations and another to provide necessary services and trainings.
working in CAAN. Initially, I worked at Air travel to almost all the domestic airports in
Can you tell us about the TIA expansion plans?
Nepal. In 2001, I left the Air Traffic Control
As it is pretty obvious that the Tribhuwan
sector and got into the management level
International Airport has already reached
of the institution. I was elected as the Director
its capacity, before the new international
General of CAAN around 16 months ago
airlines can be completed, the current one
after having served as a Deputy Director
and only airport needs to be able to hold
General for a while. Having served for so
a larger number of aircrafts. However, the
long in this sector, I have experienced many
process has been slow. The project was
changes that have occurred over the years.
initiated 3 years ago but till now, only about
In the past, only a few domestic airlines used
17% has been completed. There have been
to fly but today we’ve got 18 airlines that fly
some issues that are delaying the project but
on a regular basis. Even the technology has
things look better now. The expansion plans
changed over the years as new innovations
will be utilizing the empty areas around the
keep improving the quality of work that we
TIA to help expand the airport’s capacity.
Traffic Control. During those days, I got to
do. Nepal’s aviation sector has definitely come a long way.
How is the establishment of the new international airports coming along?
What role does CAAN play in Nepal’s aviation sector?
international airports. I’m sure you’ve already
In simple terms, CAAN is a regulatory
heard of the Gautam Buddha Airport in
authority for all the aerial activities that take
Bhairawa and the recently initiated Pokhara
place. It is also a service provider as we
International Airport. The government has
provide training, flight authority and safety
also allocated a certain budget for a new
oversight for each aircraft. The CAAN is
airport to be established in Nijgadh, Bara.
We are currently working to establish 3 new
29
Interview
Because of the fuel crisis that occurred last year along with the border blockade, the progress for the Gautam Buddha airport has been slow. Despite the target to finish the airport by 2018, only 25% of the work has been completed so far. However, on a brighter note, the Pokhara Airport is gaining pace and it seems that the airport will be completed before its deadline of 2020. As for the Nijgadh airport, 1400 household of the area need to be relocated before the construction of the airport can take place. So for now, we’re looking to relocate the current settlers.
Nepal’s aircrafts have been banned from European airports for a while now, how is CAAN dealing with this? The ban has raised a lot of questions on the safety of Nepal’s aircrafts. However, when such aircraft accidents occur, it affects us the most. Whether it is a domestic flight or an international one, CAAN needs to ensure their safety. When it comes to human and machine interface, zero percent accident rates are impossible to achieve but we are still trying to lower the rate. 2009 to 2013 were dark times for Nepal’s aviation that questioned the flight safety of the aircrafts. But since 2013, there has been a gradual increase on the Significant Safety Concern. We’ve taken measures such as providing safety training programs and creating strict policies for pilots. It is a tedious job but an important one.
Having travelled to 65 out of the 75 districts of Nepal, Mr. Sanjiv Gautam has experienced it all, from the peaks of Himalayas to the southern plains. According to Gautam, his favorite places to visit are Khaptad with its greenery and Ilam’s tea estates. But his ideal vacation would be to visit the remaining 10 districts that he hasn’t been to. Gautam says, “My wish is to set foot on all the 75 districts of Nepal. That would be the ideal vacation.”
30
Food
Local Eateries to Look out For T
hey say that the best secrets are hidden in plain sight
and it cannot be truer for local Nepali eateries known as “bhattis” or “khaja ghars”. Famous for their traditional cuisine and homemade liquor, each alley has its own favorite. While most of these places may not be known for their décor or
Newa Lahana
service, they have been tried and tested through time and gets the verdict from all who visit these places. Here are some of Kathmandu’s famous
Newa Lahana, Kirtipur One cannot talk about bhattis and miss out on the ultimate
bhattis for you to discover
experience at Newa Lahana located at Kirtipur. Although you
but do remember there
wouldn’t exactly call the place a “bhatti” since it is spread
are definitely many
out over an unfinished building, the Newari food that you get
more hidden out there
there does not compromise on the authentic bhatti taste. The
among the narrow alleys.
place also serves up some of the lesser known Newari cuisines
Anywhere you go, simply
like fried buffalo lungs, tongue and even the Newari Bhwe
ask for the famous bhatti
set complete with more than ten side dishes. Add to that the
around and you won’t fail
traditional straw mat laid out to sit on the floors and the staff
to have one of the best
and chefs wearing traditional Newari clothes, Newa Lahana
local dining experiences.
is a place to behold. The wide range of food available here will keep you coming back for more as you simply cannot try all the dishes in one visit.
32
Honacha, Patan Durbar Square Located in the heart of Patan behind the Krishna Temple, Honacha is a must go-to place. Despite its small size and limited seats, it is always crowded with locals and outsiders alike. With a history of almost 60 years in service, the original place hasn’t changed much, except for the fact that there are two Honachas now that belong to two brothers of the family. Both the places are as good and even the
Honacha, Patan
33
Food
location is set just a house or two apart. One of its signature dishes are the haku chhoeyla, spicy, seared cuts of buffalo meat and mixed spicy aloo and the kima bara, bean patties with minced meat. But if you want to try these, make sure you get there before the afternoon tea time, before it all get sold out.
Kwacha, Chyasal, Patan Durbar Square If Honacha is too crowded you try the Kwacha. About 15 minutes away towards Chyasal, Kwacha is another local favorite. But don’t expect big signboards to reveal the place to you. You might have to ask around to find out where the place is. Kwacha offers up most of the common Newari delicacies like chhoeyla, wo and aalu tama but their popular dishes are Takhaa and Nyakhuna, gelatinous stews made from buffalo and its spicier version mixed with bits of fish. Also make sure you try the duck chhoeyla.
34
Kwacha, Chyasal
Gyanlal Bara Pasal, Thimi
Gyanlal Bara Pasal, Thimi Gyanlal Bara Pasal run by Gyan dai himself, this place serves up the best baras. Specializing in baras of different kinds, such as the egg bara, plain veg bara and keema bara. You can also find other items on the menu but don’t skip out on the place’s specialty. It is located near the Balkumari Temple in Thimi, once you reach there, simply ask for “Gyan dai ko bhatti pasal” and you will certainly end up in the doorsteps of bara heaven.
35
Manang
On the Soil of
Manang
n Indu Dhungana
I
t was the last week of September. After crossing the traffic from Nagdhunga to Naubise, the expanse of greenery and the fresh air made left us feeling refreshed. Our land cruiser
was moving towards Mungling. Finally we crossed the Mungling Bridge and started our journey for Besishahar. We left the Mugling-Pokhara road from Dumre and took another way towards Besishahar. The Dumre-Besishahar road is named after Bhanubhakta Acharya, the first Nepali poet. We crossed mountains showered with clouds, river basin and paddy fields. We reached the Getaway Himalaya Resort, Besishahar at 4 PM. It was a misty evening accompanied with light rain.
37
Manang
Chame-Manang Road As per our schedule, we decided to spend
our team leader, we got a chance to go by
one night in Besishahar and it was really nice
our own vehicles. The syndicate is an illegal
to have a typical Nepali meal. The next
act in Nepal, but either government officials
morning, we were feeling curious as we were
are very weak to implement the rules and
starting our journey towards Manang, the
regulations or they are taking under-table
district with the lowest population of Nepal
bribes from local transport owners.
and is known as 'Himal Pariko Jilla'.
We crossed Nepal's first and only tunnel road built by Upper Marsyangdi Hydropower
It was an exciting trip for me. We begun
Project. The project is a joint venture of
our journey towards Chame, the district
Chinese and Nepali investors. The tunnel is
headquarter of Manang from Besishahar. The
very short, only about 5 meters, but it is Nepal's
Local transportation management committee
only vehicle accessible tunnel.
tried to interrupt us, because of the syndicate
On the way to Chame, we took a brunch
of jeep owners. After some bargaining from
at Sangye, a beautiful mountain base of Lamjung. There is a very nice waterfall near the hotel which is known as Sangye Jharana. The heavy rainfall couldn't stop us from capturing the wonderful moments! Again, we started to move towards Chame. Stones and sands were the only things we could see on the road throughout the journey. There were turnings every 2 minutes but I enjoyed it, because I had never experienced off road riding. We took lunch at Chymche, Lamjung. This is a very beautiful Marsyangdi basin, overshadowed by two black mountains. We were moving through jeep from the Annapurna Tracking Route. The route is supposed to be used only for trekking but
Manang Airport
38
the motorway constructed by government
Apple Farm We
made it difficult for trekking.
crossed
the
Tal
and
reached
When we reached the border of Lamjung-
Dharapani, where we visited the first Rainbow
Manang, we were stuck for almost two hours
Trout farm of Manang. According to a Nepali
because a truck was not functioning near
fish expert, fishes are not available at Manang,
the wooden bridge at the Myadi stream. The
because it doesn't have appropriate water
single lane road was totally blocked by the
current for fish. The high and fast water
truck and our jeep could not pass through
flow doesn't allow fish to grow at rivers and
it. However, after two hours, the workers
water bodies of Manang. But, entrepreneur
managed to pull it up by tractor and I put my
Lokendra Ghale ventured into something
feet for the first time on the soil of Manang.
new and beyond the natural availability of
bridge
Manang and started Rainbow Trout farm in
of Myadi, we started to move via high
high altitudes. It was quite an inspiring initiation
Himalayan terrain, where we could only see
by Ghale, where he invested 6 million Nepali
Black Mountains. We were unfortunate in
Rupees to start up his farm.
After
crossing
the
wooden
the sense that, it was off season to visit such
After enjoying the trout, we moved
a beautiful place. If it was winter, we might
towards Chame, where we had to spend
have seen snow-capped Mountains.
the night. When we started our journey
39
Manang
from Dharapani, it was almost evening, so we
When
we
reached
the
Pisang
VDC-1,
were bound to cross the challenging road in
Bhratang, the proprietor of Agro Manang apple
the cold and dark evening. We crossed at least
farm greeted us. Agro Manang is the largest
half a dozen wooden bridges and many small
apple farm of Nepal, which covers an area of
falls that evening. I used to put my right palm
715 Ropani. Polden Chopang Gurung, the owner
on my left chest, while crossing these deadly
of Manang Agro is going to build a modern hotel
wooden bridges, where we could see notices
near his farm along with cold storage. Chame-
about worthiness of these bridges given by road
Manang road moves through the middle of
department of Nepal and it had the limit of three
the farm. Gurung is going to give agro-tourism
tons.
package for domestic and international tourist
We tried to convert our apprehension to
in the near future. He has already invested 160
adventure that evening and our driver did the
million Nepali rupees and is going to add 50 million
same. We crossed many turnings and landside,
more within two years. It was quite surprising and
bridges and black stone Mountains and finally
an inspiring story for Nepali society; where most of the people choose to go abroad to earn money. After
some
chitchat
with
Gurung,
we
continued our drive towards Manang. We crossed the Manang Airport, where people are not getting regular flights for the last three years. Unlike other airports in hilly areas of Nepal, this airport is black topped but, people prefer using the roads rather than flying after the opening the Besishahar-Chame road. At noon, we reached Manang and enjoyed lunch with Yak meat. It was quite expensive than others places. We have to pay at least 600 rupees for one meal! After lunch we took selfies and wefies in Gaangapurna Lake near Manang Bazaar, which is situated at the height of 3500 meters from sea level. The Annapurna Himal was shining and the red colour of the buckwheat field added more beauty to Manang valley. Buckwheat is one of reached Chame; a small valley situated at the bank of Marsyangdi.
40
the most grown food grains in this range. In
the
evening,
we
bid
'farewell'
to
Some of my friends were so scared because
Gaangapurna Lake and Annapurna Himal along
of the high altitude and started to bite pieces
with the beautiful terrain of Manang. Our jeep
of garlic and some started to enjoy Old Durbar
was moving towards Chame, where we had to
Whiskey. I took a cup of hot water and enjoyed
spend the night. The next day, we left Chame for
it in the cold with a warm local meal. The next
Besishahar. We crossed many wooden bridges,
morning, we stepped towards Manang. When
many falls, many turnings from Marsyngdi River
we left Chame, it was very exciting for me. I
basin, like the water pass through Himalaya to
was about to enter the cold desert of Nepal. As
Middle Himalayan and Mahbharat to Terai.
we were passing through a variety of valleys of
Though, I said goodbye to 'Himal Pariko Jilla',
Manang district, the light rain welcomed us along
the mesmerizing mountain terrain of Manang is
with the snow-white clouds.
still in my mind.
Travel Tips
Fly Smart
Arrive at the Airport Early
E
ven before you have reached the airport, the people
Arriving at the airport just 10-15 minutes before departure
responsible for your flight are working in coordination to
is not enough. Make the smart and informed decision and
provide you comfortable journey. These include the efforts
arrive early at the airport for your next flight with us.
of your booking agent, ground handling staff, airport security staff, engineers and the flight crew. An aircraft needs to be perfectly balanced to fly safely and efficiently. To do so would require calculations regarding fuel, number of passengers, weight of checked baggage, distance of flight, duration of flight, etc. These calculations need time, care and consideration – which is why most airlines always advice you to arrive at the airport early. As a rule of thumb, in Nepal, if you are flying long-haul destinations (international flights) you will need to be at the airport 2-3 hours before your departure time. For short-haul flights (domestic destinations), it is 1 hour. • ONE HOUR BEFORE FLIGHT TIME – is printed in bold on all our tickets, informing you to be at the airport early. • Arriving at Nepal’s domestic airports an hour earlier gives you time to go through security screening, checking your baggage and getting your boarding pass for your flight. • Peak travel seasons have longer check-in lines, so it is advisable to be at the airport earlier than an hour. • If you have baggage / luggage to check in, arrive earlier than an hour. • Take note of alternative routes or transportation as you may sometimes get stuck in traffic jams or congestions. • Furthermore, passengers may be on the waiting list, and if you do not check in on time, you may lose your seat to the waiting passenger.
41
Opinion
Rajin Ranjit
Insights to the Airline Industry
MIS Director, Buddha Air
How do you become a millionaire? “You start off as a billionaire and then open an
Considering the vital and invaluable service it provides to make the world a smaller place, why is the airline industry
airline,” quipped Sir Richard Branson when he was asked
synonymous with ongoing losses and insolvency?
this question. Sir Branson is an English business magnate,
• Operating an airline is an expensive business. Most in
investor, philanthropist and founder of Virgin Group. His
the industry take loans or buy aircrafts on lease just to
airline, Virgin America, consistently lost money even though
keep flying.
it won accolades for its staff, service, and overall customer experience.
• Computers have automated many tasks, but the airline industry is a highly personalized service industry. Pilots,
As The World Economist puts it, “Airlines are wonderful
flight attendants, baggage handlers, mechanics,
generators of profit—for everyone except themselves.” Of
reservation agents, cleaners, lawyers, managers, etc
everyone involved in the travel industry, airlines have the
are on monthly payroll adding to a high incurring fixed
slimmest profit margins.
cost. Labor costs per employee are among the highest
In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the US
compared to other industries.
airlines lost US$30 million between 2000 and 2005. This
• A positive cash flow of airlines is used to repay debt or
includes wage cuts of over US$ 15 billion and 100,000
acquire new aircrafts. When the profits or cash flows
employees laid off. Even with this dire situation, the US
decline, the ability to for debt repayment and acquiring
Federal Government provided US$4.6 billion in a onetime
new aircraft diminishes.
subject-to-income-tax cash payment to 427 airlines – with
• Investors in the airline industry do not enjoy high profit
no provision for repayment. Loan guarantees were also
returns – causing them to rethink a thousand times
provided to 6 airlines totaling US$1.6 billion.
before investing. Airline profits are volatile and riskier
A similar situation prevails in Nepal and India where the governments support their national airlines, no matter how much loss the airlines make. Analysts have been critical
than those of airports and aviation service providers. • Airlines suffer from low profitability margins especially during unpredictable circumstances.
of “dumping” tax payers’ money into the airline industry,
• The industry is highly regulated due to political,
just to prevent it from bankruptcy. Regardless of what the
economic and safety concerns. New airlines find it
analysts say, the governments always come to the rescue
difficult to sustain in the long run. Furthermore, restrictive
of national airlines, which is unique to this industry.
practices make it difficult for new airlines to obtain slots
The high capital requirement in the initial phase and in the long run makes the airline industry volatile and critical.
in the airport. This remains an obstacle for new airlines to secure its place in Kathmandu Airport.
There are many cases of airlines going bankrupt in Nepal
• Domestic carriers are dependent on the state of the
and globally. Six major airlines went through bankruptcy
national economy. When a country faces economic
from 1979 to 2014, and the industry lost US$35 billion. In
recession or slowdown, flyers choose affordable
January 2010, Japan Airlines was declared bankrupt,
alternatives like roads or trains. Fewer business travels
joining the swelling ranks of insolvent airlines.
are planned and fewer tourists travel to the country.
42
unforeseen challenges, our priority and core focus will always be to make pleasant,
affordable,
safest
and
comfortable journey for our esteemed passengers. We have been putting all our effort to overcome this in Buddha Air with a unique business model which shall deem as a role model in airline industry. Our long term dedication, transparent
systems,
management
processes and by the books operation Airlines have to fly with empty seats causing them to
have proven fruitful only because of contribution of more
face a liquidity crisis.
than 750 loyal and result oriented staffs along with dynamic
The last few points hold true in Nepal as the country
leadership and vision required for the success in any kind of
suffers through the effects
of natural calamities and
political
tourism
turmoil.
As
a
dependent country, Nepal had only 40% travelers visiting – which is a major income source for domestic airlines.
business platform.
Services Services
KMD KMD
There are a few airlines in Nepal
KMD KMD
which have a track record of operating more than a decade without filing for bankruptcy. Profitability hits hard when airlines in Nepal face situations like
Aviation Aviation
Engineering Engineering
Treaty Treaty
Structured Structured Solutions Solutions
rise in fuel prices and the inability to raise the fare in proportion to the rising costs. The industry is still in turmoil as the Fare Revision Process is controlled
Liabilityy
Liabilityy
by the ministry and has been pending
Marine
Personal
Marine (Hull/Cargo) (Hull/Cargo)
Direct Direct Insurance
Personal Lines Lines
Insurance
since 2011. The domestic airlines are suffering from the revision gap process, high fixed costs and low profit margins. The airline business is not as lucrative
Terrorism
Terrorism
Construction
Health
Construction
Health
as reported by the International Air
Rural and
Employee
Agriculture Rural and Agriculture
Benefits Employee Benefits
KMD
Transport Association (IATA) or ICAO. 18
It is even more difficult in scenarios where few established airlines have consolidated
the
whole
market
with their unique business models
KMD
18
in a regulated market. Preparing for unsustainable competition may jeopardize the whole aviation industry but the only sufferer will be the airline itself. Regardless
of
threats
and
K.M. Dastur
K M Dastur Reinsurance Brokers Pvt. Ltd. An ISO 9001:2000 company certified BY TUV Germany Lloyd’s y Brokers ((K.M Dastur & Company p y - London)) Website: www.kmdastur.com
Eros Theatre Building, 5th floor, Jamshetji Tata Road, Churchgate, Mumbai - 400020
43
Hangar
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Pet Etiquette
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46
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7df8f}a+ f6 cfkm\gf ;fyLefO;“u klxnf] k6s n'lDagLsf nflu lx8] sL lk|of zdf{n] cfkm\gf] Kof/f] …af]uÚ' -s's/' _ nfO{ cfkm";u“ } gNofO{ ;lsgg\ . pgsf kl/jf/ hgn] s's/' Kn]gdf ;fy nfg kfOb}g eGbf eGb} klg c+uh ]| L rnlrqsf] k|efjdf k/]sL lk|ofnfO{ h;/L klg cfkm\gf] s's/' ;“u} nfg' lyof] . cGttM ljdfg:ynsf sd{rf/Lx?n] pQm s's/' kmsf{PlbP . sf7df8f}s + L lk|of t Ps k|ltlglw 36gf dfq xf] . s's/' tyf cGo hgfj/x? cfkm";u“ } hxfhdf lnP/ lx+8g\ kfOG5 eg]/ b]vs ] f] jf ;'gs ] f] e/df lgod / k|lqmof ga'lem cfkm\ gf 3/kfn'jf hgfj/sf ;fy ljdfg:yn k'Ug] ofq'sf nflu ljdfg:yn tyf ;Dj4 Po/ nfoG;sf sd{rf/Lsf nflu klg plQs} ;f:tL x'G5 . g]kfndf klg, xlnp8 lkmNd b]lvP em}+ 3/kfn'jf hgfj/ cfkm";u“ } lnP/ xjfO{ofqf ug{ kfOG5 . t/ To;sf nflu s]xL k|lqmofx? eg] ofq' tyf Po/nfoG; sDkgL b'jn } ] k'¥ofpg' kg]{ x'G5 . g]kfndf a'4 Po/ cfkm\gf] sfuf] { ;] jfdf 3/kfn'jf hgfj/nfO{ ;d]t ofq's} uGtJo;Dd k'¥ofOlbg] ;]jf k|bfg ub{5 . t/ o;sf nflu xjfO{ ;'/Iff / ;'ljwfsf lx;fan]
s]xL lgodx?sf] eg] kfngf ug'{ kg]{ x'G5 . s] ug'{ k5{ < a'4 Po/sf] ljdfgaf6 olb tkfO{+ ofqf ub}{ x'gx' G' 5 / ;fydf cfkm\gf] 3/kfn'jf hgfj/ nfg] OR5f nfu]df ;'?df a'4 Po/ sf] sfuf]{ sfof{nodf hfgsf/L u/fP/ cfkm"n] nfg rfx]sf] hgfj/sf] ljj/0f;lxt clu|d a'lsË u/fpg' kb{5 . o;n] ljdfgsf sfuf] s { f sd{rf/L tyf rfnsbnsf ;b:onfO{ tkfO{n + ] cfkm";fy nfg rfx]sf] hgfj/sf af/]df Joj:yfkg ug{ d2t k'¥ofp“5 . æclu|d a'lsË u/fpgsf nflu tkfO{n + ] cfkm\gf] l6s6 lnPsf] 6«fen Ph]G6dfkm{t jf a'4 Po/sf] sfuf]{ sfof{nosf] ;Dks{ g+= )!–$$&&#@! df kmf]g u/]/ clu|d a'lsË u/fpg ;Sg'xG' 5 . sf7df8f}e + Gbf aflx/sf] xsdf clu|d a'lsË u/fpgsf nflu ;DalGwt :yfgsf] a'4 Po/ sf] sfof{nodf ;Dks{ ug{ ;Sg'xg' 5 ] ,Æ cfkm\gf] ;]jfsf af/]df atfpb} a'4 Po/sL sfuf]{ l8lehg k|dv ' ;DejL a:tfsf]6Ln] atfOg\ . bf];f| ] r/0fdf cfkm"n] ;fy} nfg rfx] sf] hgfj/ sf nflu lns gx'g] jf lns]h k|k' m afs;sf] Joj:yf ug'k{ g]{ x'G5 . æo:tf afs;x? ahf/df ;lhn} lsGg kfOG5 jf
olb tkfO{Fn] Nofpg g;s]s ] f] v08df a'4 Po/ sf sd{rf/Lx?n] ofqf cjlwsf nflu tkfO{n + fO{ pQm afs; ljdfg:ynd} pknAw u/fpg]5g\,Æ a:tfsf]6Ln] yk hfgsf/L lbb} elgg\ . o:tf afs; leq /fv]/ ^ dlxgfeGbf sd pd]/sf] s's/' jf lj/ fnf]sf aRrfx? -a9Ldf b'Oj{ 6f_, jo:s s's/' jf lj/fnf]sf] xsdf a9Ldf ( s]hL tf}n ePsf], lj/fnf], ;'uf jf cGo kz'kI+ fL jf ev{/} hlGdPsf s'v/' fsf rNnfx? -hGd]sf] Ps lbg leqdf_ tkfO{s + f nflu kz'x?sf] oftfoftsf] k|aGw ldnfOG5 . oL ;a} r/0fx?df ;a}eGbf dxŒjk"0f{ kIf eg] sf tkfO{n + ] cfkm";u“ } nfgrfx]sf] kz'sf] :jf:Yo cj:yfsf] k|df0fkq xf] . ofqf ug]{ lbgdf !) lbg gs6]sf] kz'sf] :jf:Yo ljj/0f pNn]v ug]{ kz' lrlsT;sn] k|dfl0ft u/]sf] k|df0fkq lagf kz'sf] sfuf]{ ug{ kfOb} g . o;sf nflu tkfO{n + ] cfkm\gf] kz' lrlsT;s jf sfuf]{ sfof{nosf] ;Dks{df /x]sf kz' lrlsT;saf6 ;xof]u lng ;Sg'xg' 5 ] .
dfly pNn]v ul/Psf ;a} zt{x? k'/f eP gePsf] olsg ug{sf nflu sfuf]s { f sd{rf/Lx?n] Ps r]slni6sf] k|of]u ub{5g\ . To;kZrft tkfO{n + ] lhp“bf] hgjf/sf] nflu :j3f]if0ff ul/g] l;k;{ kmf/d dfkm{t sfuf]s { f ;dodf tkfO{n] nfg OR5f ug'{ ePsf] hgfj/sf] k|fs[lts sf/0fn] d[To' jf 3fOt] ePdf a'4 Po/ lhDd]jf/ x'g] 5}g eGg] kmf/d e/]/ x:tfIf/ ug'{ kg]{ x'G5 . o:tf k|fs[lts sf/0fx?df hgfj/x?sf] 6f]sfO{, emu8f, 3fp jf cGo cËaf6 x'g] /Qm>fj, tfkdfgsf] 36a9 jf cGo o:t} sf/0fx? kb{5g\ . olb ofqfsf] bf}/fg kz'sf] d[To' ePdf, pQm kz'sf] zjnfO{ e]6g] /L lrlsT;ssf] df hf“rsf nflu k7fOG5 / lrlsT;sn] k|bfg ug] { k|ltj]bg ;a} ;DalGwt kIfnfO{ k|bfg ul/g]5 . oL
hfgsf/Lx? sfuf]s { f sd{rf/L jf ljdfg:ynsf a'4 Po/sf sd{rf/Lx?af6 klg lng ;lsG5 . s:tf] cj:yfdf 3/]n' hgfj/x?sf] sfuf]{ x'bg} < olb tkfO{sf] 3/]n' hgfj/nfO{ s'g} /f]u nfu]sf] ePdf jf 3fOt] jf 3fp rf]6k6s nfu]sf] ePdf, kz' ue{jtL ePdf cyjf uGtJosf] ljdfg:ynn] To:tf] sfuf]s { f nflu cg'dlt glbPdf tkfO{Fsf] 3/ kfn'jf hgfj/sf] sfuf]{ x'bg} . To;}u/L, ev{/} zNolqmof ul/ Psf jf d[t hgfj/sf] klg sfuf]{ x'bg} . a'4 Po/sf sd{rf/Lx? ;hLj 3/ kfn'jf hgfj/sf] Joj:yfkgsf nflu ljz]if ?kdf k|lzlIft 5g\ . o:tf sfuf]s { f sd{rf/Lx?sf] ;xof]udf / ;a} k|lqmof k'¥ofPsf] v08df tkfO{n] cfkm\gf] dgkg] { hgfj/nfO{ cfkm";Fu} nfg ;Sg'xg' 5 ] .
;lhn} dfkb08df tkfO{ cfkm";u “ } cfkm\ gf] Kof/f] hgfj/nfO{ Pp6} ljdfgdf cfkm"n] OR5fPsf] uGtJodf nfg ;Sg'xG' 5 .
Churchill Complex, Sundhara, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 01-6210579, Fax: 01-4268107 email: pathibhara_2010@hotmail.com
w w w. b u d d h a a i r. c o m
df]afO{n app a'Wb Po/ ca tkfO{;Fu} —p8fg tflnsf÷ef8fb/ ;lhn} x]g{, kQf nufpg ;lsg] l;:tf] ef8f klg pknAw —s]xL a6g tyf s]xL ;]s]08d} l6s6 ll;6 a'lsª ul/ kfos 6«fen Ph]G;L jf a'Wb Po/sf] ;]N; sfp06/af6 klg l6s6 lsGg ;lsg] ldf]afO{n Pkaf6 l;6 a'lsªsf] ;fy} e-sewa ;'ljwf ePsfx?n] ;f]em} l6s6 vl/b ug{;Sg] —/f]onSna dfO{n]h ck8]6 —c6f]–gf]l6lkms];gdfkm{t ljleGg ;"rgf÷hfgsf/Lx?
Pk pknAw 5g\ lgMz'Ns
@airbuddha
Buddha Air
@buddhaairnepal
Call Center: 977-1-5542494, email: buddhaair@buddhaair.com
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Company News
17 August 2016
September 2016
Refueling services started at
First time in Nepal: MRO Service at
Bhadrapur / Chandragadhi
Buddha Air’s Hangar
Airport
Redefining Nepal’s aviation history, our state of the art hangar facility was granted a license to perform Maintenance, Repair and Maintenance (MRO) Services for ATR and Beechcraft. The license was granted by the Civil Aviation
Bhadrapur Airport / Chandragadhi Airport is the major travel hub for eastern Nepal. The airport was established in 1963, but did not have refueling facilities. A special storage depot was constructed at the airport storing the Aviation Turbine Fuel allowing aircrafts to be directly refueled at Bhadrapur Airport. The refueling services would not be possible without the cooperation and coordination of Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC), Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN), Bhadrapur Airport’s Director and the efforts of Nepal’s domestic airlines. All aircrafts require a special fuel commonly known as Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), which is only supplied by NOC in Nepal. The ATF is of higher quality than normal fuel and require special storage facility. With Bhadrapur Airport, there are 9 airports in Nepal equipped with refueling facilities.
49
Company News
Authority of Nepal (CAAN) on 6th September 2016. Airlines have to perform regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the airworthiness of their fleet. These inspections and maintenance are provided under MRO services and can include small inspections to heavy maintenance. Working at our hangar are our expert technicians and engineers, who are sent for training to hone and refresh their skills. Our hangar facility was built at a cost of
Bharatpur (8) and Bharatpur to Kathmandu (8). Two days later, on 9th September 2016, we had
US$25 million. It has modern workshops, repair shops, well-
achieved another milestone. We flew with 3,894
maintained storage area for spare parts and tools, etc.
passengers (including infants) which was the highest
Our hangar recently won the IPMA Project Excellence
number of passengers flown in one day.
Award in 2014. Airlines from neighboring countries can
However, this record was surpassed on 7 October 2016
be assured that we will provide the best practices with
when we flew with 4,479 passengers (including infants).
operational excellence in regards to our MRO services.
This is the highest number of passengers we have flown in one day since we started operations in 1997.
Two milestones on the same week On 7th September 2016, we operated the highest
These achievements were made possible because of you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our passengers! Thank you for your continuous support.
number of flights from Kathmandu â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bharatpur â&#x20AC;&#x201C;
Let us break more records and achieve more milestones
Kathmandu. We flew 16 flights from Kathmandu to
together.
Flying with the Man on the Moon; Buzz Aldrin On 8th September 2016, we had the honor and privilege of flying with American Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and his Mission Control Director Christina Korp to Biratnagar. Our staff had organized a small welcome for them at Tribhuvan
Center, etc are mobilized to the
keeping and updating information
International Airport.
incident area or designated areas.
so that the right information can be
Buzz Aldrin, along with Neil
A Crisis Management Center has
communicated with the concerned
Armstrong was one of the few
been established as a center for
teams and media.
people to successfully land on the moon on 20th July 1969. Aldrin and his team were in Nepal to hold an interactive discussion of his experience of the moon landing
and what the future holds for space exploration. Emergency Response Drill As part of an effort to keep the employees vigilant and alert in case of an emergency, we perform an Emergency Response Drill in accordance with our Emergency Response Manual every year (25th September 2016) Under this drill, a mock scenario is created about an incident occurring. Teams outlined in our ERP manual like Go Team, Crisis Management Team, Family and Friends Reception
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