In a vibrant celebration of environmental action and community pride, Youth Advocacy Group Saral Nepal from Bharatpur Metropolitan City successfully completed the “Model Neighborhood Initiative” under the EU-funded GreenShift project. The initiative brought together road construction, sanitation campaigns, and neighborhood beautification, culminating in the inauguration of a newly transformed road now named Saral Marga (Saral Road), a tribute by the city inspired by their work.
The inauguration ceremony, held on July 24-25, 2025, brought together 46 participants, including local residents, youth volunteers, and stakeholders. The program was chaired by Mr. Bishnu Bahadur Bhujel, Executive Member of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, who praised the initiative as a model for youth and community contributions to urban development – “This project reflects the potential of youth and local communities to contribute meaningfully to urban development. I will continue supporting Saral Nepal and the GreenShift project,” he said.
Youth volunteers led door-to-door awareness campaigns, coordinated cleaning drives, and installed beautification elements such as wall paintings, flowerpots, and waste bins. Dustbins, flowerpots, and plant saplings were also distributed to enhance neighborhood cleanliness and aesthetics. Residents expressed pride in the transformation and committed to maintaining the space.
Saral Nepal’s Project Lead, Mr. Rupak Ghimire, highlighted the broader significance – “When we make useful things out of rubbish, we change the environment where we live. This is more than beautification – it is a step toward a green transition, where rubbish turns to treasure.”
Through these localized efforts, Saral Nepal is demonstrating how youth-led action can drive environmental protection, circular economy practices, and community ownership. The GreenShift project continues to amplify such voices, supporting Nepal’s transition to a cleaner, greener future.
