Population Decline Persists in Arghakhanchi Despite Development Progress

According to reports, the population of Arghakhanchi has decreased by over 20,000 in the last decade, dropping to 177,086. Due to rapid migration, 7,362 hectares of cultivable land have been left fallow in Arghakhanchi over the past ten years. In the last five years alone, nearly 25,000 people from 5,082 households have relocated from Arghakhanchi to other areas. (29 Jestha, Kathmandu)

Previously, there were no motorable roads in the villages; residents had to go as far as Butwal to buy essentials like salt and oil in Dhakar. There were no water taps in homes, requiring people to carry water from ponds for drinking. However, now the village roads are paved, every household has access to drinking water, and electricity and internet services are available. Despite such significant development and facilities, villages in Arghakhanchi are becoming increasingly deserted.

A few years ago, 45 households lived in Chhapa, ward no. 11 of Shitganga Municipality. Today, all these homes stand empty. Similarly, Gauchaur in ward no. 9 of Sandhikharka Municipality has also seen mass depopulation. According to Shivlal Chundali, a teacher at Argha Rajasthan Secondary School, student numbers have declined as migration from villages has increased. The school once had 550 students, but now only 200 remain.

Arghakhanchi holds significant potential for religious and natural tourism. According to Krishna Prasad Shrestha, the municipal chief, tourism combined with agriculture-based enterprises and organic production can help retain youth in the villages. Arghakhanchi currently stands at a crucial crossroads of change. The main reasons for migration include lack of employment opportunities, agricultural risks, and the poor quality of social services.