The government’s negotiation team has called for a resumption of talks with those protesting the Pathibhara cable car construction.

Prem Prasad Bhattarai, coordinator of the government’s team, sent a letter on Friday to the Mukkumlung Tangse: Chumbho and Mukkumlung Inter-party Struggle Committee in Taplejung, inviting them to return to the negotiating table.

The letter highlighted the ongoing discussions since January 4 aimed at peacefully resolving disputes surrounding the cable car construction in the Pathibhara area. “I invite local representatives from Taplejung to engage in dialogue to address the concerns raised by the protesters on social, religious, cultural, and local community issues through peaceful means,” Bhattarai said.

However, the protesters continue to demand a ministerial-level dialogue committee, the release of arrested individuals, a halt to construction, and the withdrawal of security forces from the area. Police have filed charges against 18 individuals in Taplejung.