On 13th September 2024, a significant stakeholder meeting took place at Shambhunath Municipality to discuss the "Sustainable City Development" project. Spearheaded by Dalit Sarokar Manch Nepal (DSMN) in collaboration with Purak Asia, the project aims to address critical urban challenges in Shambhunath by focusing on inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity. The meeting, which brought together local government officials, community leaders, and experts, highlighted the municipality’s rich natural and cultural heritage and its potential for sustainable urban development.

Manish Koirala, Research Officer at DSMN, introduced the project by emphasizing Shambhunath’s historical significance and strategic location, noting its selection by the Nepal government for the national Smart City Development Project. Bhola Kumar Pasman, Executive Director, detailed DSMN's previous work in the region, including COVID-19 relief efforts and large-scale tree plantation initiatives. He stressed the collaborative approach of the project, where the local government will take the lead in policy implementation, with DSMN playing a guiding and facilitative role.

Consultant Deepak Kumar Gajurel presented the findings of a comprehensive survey conducted in Shambhunath, which revealed key challenges such as poor educational infrastructure, inadequate health care, and caste-based discrimination. Participants engaged in a lively discussion, confirming the accuracy of the survey while emphasizing the need for improvements in education, youth engagement, and health services. Local leaders expressed their concerns over political instability hindering policy implementation and the growing issue of drug use among the youth.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the local government to support the project, as Deputy Mayor Anita Kumari Chaudhary assured participants of her administration’s dedication to the initiative. She thanked DSMN and Purak Asia for their efforts and vowed to offer all necessary assistance to ensure the project’s success, positioning Shambhunath as a model for sustainable urban development in Nepal.