IUDP: Prospects and Challenges for Implementation in Nepal: A Case Study of Godawari Municipality

Abstract

The IUDP represents Nepal's latest comprehensive municipal-level urban planning approach, geared towards providing inclusive and sustainable development for new municipalities. However, the successful implementation of IUDP faces various challenges that demand long-term vision and guidance from municipal authorities. This study delves into the prospects and challenges of IUDP implementation in the context of Godawari Municipality by studying the selection and prioritization of projects, implementation framework of IUDP, municipal budget, and exploration of implementation issues and the probable solutions. The municipality faces significant challenges in IUDP project implementation, including legal constraints, transparency issues, limited budget, political willpower, lack of technical support, complexities in land ownership, road standard compliance, community ownership, and shortage of technical experts, all highlighting the necessity of a specific implementation framework. Addressing critical challenges through formalizing ward committees, clear project selection guidelines, streamlined procedures, financial accountability, strengthened planning commission, cost-effective expert consultants, community ownership, sustainable forest conservation norms, and enhanced staff capacity is essential for successful and sustainable IUDP implementation in Godawari Municipality, contributing to holistic regional development. The prospects of IUDP implementation in Godawari Municipality show promise with relevant projects, investment planning, collaborative efforts, and proposed solutions, along with a dedicated team and budget allocation that enhance the likelihood of successful and sustainable development.