Finance Minister Inspects Fire-Damaged Auto Showrooms, Assures Government Support
Thapathali Auto Showroom Damage
17th September 2025, Kathmandu
Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal has conducted a firsthand inspection of several automobile showrooms in Thapathali that were severely damaged during the recent Gen Z protests.
Thapathali Auto Showroom Damage
This on-site visit, which comes just days after the violent demonstrations, underscores the government’s serious concern for the massive economic losses suffered by the private sector.
The minister, accompanied by Finance Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyay, visited the Thapathali Auto Hub to assess the damages to showrooms of major brands like Tata, Hyundai, Suzuki, Aion, Xpeng, and Mahindra.
During his inspection, Minister Khanal closely observed the destruction caused by the fire and vandalism, which has resulted in losses estimated to be in the crores of rupees for entrepreneurs.
The showrooms were a key target during the protest on Bhadra 24, where more than a dozen establishments in the Thapathali area were set on fire and vandalized. The widespread damage has left business owners in a state of shock and uncertainty.
NADA Briefs Minister on Extent of Losses
NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal President Karan Chaudhary and other business representatives were present during the inspection to brief the Finance Minister on the ground reality.
Chaudhary provided a detailed account of the situation, highlighting the scale of the destruction and the financial toll on the automobile industry.
The sector, which contributes significantly to Nepal’s customs revenue, is now facing one of its most challenging periods in recent memory. The destruction has not only impacted physical infrastructure but has also shaken the confidence of entrepreneurs and investors.
The government’s quick response, including this inspection, is a direct result of the continuous dialogue with stakeholders like NADA.
Earlier meetings with the Finance Minister had already brought the issues to the forefront, with NADA submitting a 22-point recommendation to help revive the ailing auto business. The on-site visit provides a tangible confirmation of the government’s commitment to address the crisis.
Government Pledges Action and Relief Measures
In response to the dire situation, Finance Minister Khanal assured the business community that the government would provide the necessary support for recovery.
He reiterated that the challenges faced by the business community are also the government’s challenges and that a collaborative effort is essential for economic revival.
The government is reportedly preparing an Integrated Business Recovery Plan to provide relief through a combination of fiscal and monetary policy measures.
A joint taskforce involving officials from the Ministry of Finance and Nepal Rastra Bank has been formed to draft this plan swiftly.
The assurance from the government includes a pledge to collect data on the exact losses and take appropriate action. Minister Khanal also mentioned that discussions are underway to expedite insurance claims for the damages, a crucial step for business owners to get back on their feet.
The government is also exploring the possibility of providing tax concessions and other facilities to support the sector. The minister’s visit to the site is a powerful message that the government is not just talking about the problem but is actively engaged in finding solutions.
This commitment is vital to restoring the morale of entrepreneurs and ensuring that the economic backbone of the country remains strong despite such setbacks.
For more: Thapathali Auto Showroom Damage
