Sudurpaschim Declares Badimalika-Ramaroshan Forest Conservation Area Covering 498.4 Sq. Km.

The Sudurpaschim Provincial Government has officially declared the Badimalika-Ramaroshan Forest Conservation Area, linking the Badimalika area of Bajura with the Ramaroshan area of Achham under a single conservation framework.

Speaking at a programme held in Dhangadhi, Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah said the declaration was made in line with the provincial Cabinet decision of August 4. He said the initiative aims to bring the important forests, natural heritage and biodiversity of the two districts under an integrated conservation area. The conservation area has been declared pursuant to Clause 26 (1) of the Sudurpaschim Province Forest Act, 2077.

The newly declared conservation area covers parts of Badimalika Municipality-5, 6, 7 and 8 and Tribeni Municipality-5, 6, 7 and 9 in Bajura, along with Mallekh Rural Municipality-1 and 2 and Ramaroshan Rural Municipality-4, 5 and 6 in Achham.

Altogether, the conservation area covers 498.4 square kilometres. The provincial government said the initiative will strengthen efforts to protect forests, biodiversity and natural heritage across the two districts.

Badimalika is renowned for its religious and natural tourism, while Ramaroshan is known for its scenic landscapes, lakes and rich biodiversity. The provincial government expects the integrated conservation framework to create a foundation for promoting ecotourism alongside the protection of forests and natural resources.

Chief Minister Shah emphasized the provincial government's commitment to strengthening conservation of the natural heritage and biodiversity of Badimalika and Ramaroshan.

The declaration is also expected to encourage greater cooperation between the local governments of Bajura and Achham in forest conservation, biodiversity protection and tourism development, potentially creating a stronger tourism circuit connecting the two destinations.