A crucial public importance proposal, introduced by UML Whip Sunita Baral, has been registered in the Federal Parliament, House of Representatives. The proposal calls for the creation of an environmental auditing law in Nepal.
The proposal, backed by MPs from the five major political party in the House of Representatives, has gained support from Congress MP Pratima Gautam, UML’s Thakur Prasad Gaire, Maoist Centre MP Madhav Sapkota, National Independent Party’s Whip Nisha Dangi, and National Democratic Party’s Whip Bina Lama.
The proposal emphasizes the need to make environmental auditing mandatory for industries in Nepal that have high environmental risks. It specifically mentions industries such as cement, brick, sand, and stone extraction, where environmental audits should be compulsory.
While there are environmental laws in Nepal, there is no legal framework for environmental auditing, and the proposal calls for its establishment. The proposal states, “There is an urgent need for a legal structure based on the principles of sustainable development and environmental conservation. This would ensure a balance between environmental protection and economic development, and hold industries accountable.”
The Auditor General’s office has prepared guidelines that define the process of environmental auditing, but the proposal notes that legislative law needs to provide directions and further elaboration on this matter.
