Kathmandu: Kathmandu Metropolitan City-16 is in mourning following the passing of its dedicated Ward Chairperson, Mukunda Rijal. Rijal, who had been battling pneumonia, was admitted to Grande International Hospital on September 3. Tragically, he succumbed to the illness at 7:30 am today, as confirmed by Dr. Binod Bijukchhe, the Hospital Director.

Dr. Bijukchhe revealed that Rijal had been receiving treatment in the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for severe viral pneumonia. Rijal, known for his commitment to public service, had been re-elected as the Ward Chairperson of KMC-16 for a second term.

Mukunda Rijal is survived by his wife and two sons, and his last rites are scheduled to be conducted at the Pashupati Aryaghat later today, as per information provided by a family member.

In honor of his memory, a program of last respects will be held by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City at the City Hall, Bhrikutimandap, starting at 11 am. Subsequently, the funeral procession will proceed to Pashupati Aryaghat for the final rites, set to take place after 12 noon.

The Nepali Congress, in recognition of Mukunda Rijal's contributions, has also organized a program of last respects at Pashupati Aryaghat to bid farewell to the late Ward Chairperson.