Sustainable Development Strategy for Nepal/Manang & Mustang Districts
The districts of Manang and Mustang, within the mountainous region of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) of West-Central Nepal, are considered a treasure house of biodiversity, unique landscape and rich cultural heritage. Manang covers 25% of ACA, while Mustang covers 45%. Diversity and uniqueness of its various ethnic groups and loci of Tibetan culture have made the area one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. This is a land abounding in natural beauty and flora and fauna and it is not uncommon to come across herds of blue sheep, the main food source for the endangered snow leopard, along the trek routes, an indication of the eco-system's robust health. Recently, the Government of Nepal, under the National Planning Commission (NPC), has initiated a plan to construct an extensive road network to connect Mustang and Manang districts with other road networks in Nepal as part of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) of the 10th Five Year Plan. As reflected in the PRSP, NPC considers road networking as a key strategy for poverty reduction. On the other hand, ACA is a protected area with a global significance so a well thought through strategy with effective monitoring and assessment mechanisms is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the region.
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