930 Families Displaced by Kathmandu Evictions Seek Resettlement Support

Kathmandu's riverbanks are being cleared of informal settlements, displacing hundreds of families. The government, under Prime Minister Balendra Shah's directive, has initiated a large-scale eviction drive, citing the vulnerability of these settlements to floods, particularly during the monsoon season.

The operation, which saw settlements in Thapathali and Gairigaun cleared with a significant security presence, has led to 930 families, comprising nearly 4,000 individuals, seeking government assistance for resettlement. These displaced residents have been temporarily housed in various facilities while a strict screening process is underway to verify their landless status.

While the authorities emphasize the necessity of clearing these settlements for public safety and urban development, rights groups and civil society organizations have voiced concerns. They urge the government to ensure adequate alternative housing is provided before forcibly removing residents. A writ petition has also been filed at the Supreme Court, highlighting the legal and human rights dimensions of the eviction.

This push to clear riverside settlements is not new, with previous attempts by local authorities lacking federal support. The current administration, however, appears determined to proceed, with eviction and resettlement processes to run concurrently. The focus on resettlement, particularly in areas like Nagarjun Municipality, signals an attempt to address the immediate needs of the displaced, though the long-term implications and the effectiveness of the screening process remain critical points of attention.

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Within 15 days, a strict screening will verify whether they own land or property. Only those found genuinely landless, including all family members, will be considered for resettlement.