Bancharedanda waste site leaves nearby settlements battling disease, pollution

For two decades, residents living near the Bancharedanda landfill in Dhunibesi, Nepal, have endured a daily onslaught of foul smells, polluted water, and debilitating health issues. The landfill, which receives waste from Kathmandu Valley and 21 local municipalities, has transformed their lives into what they describe as "hell."

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We have been living in hell for two decades. It has become impossible to live in the village.

Crows, kites, and stray dogs scavenge from the waste, carrying carcasses and refuse into nearby villages, exacerbating the unsanitary conditions. Residents report that the stench permeates their homes, making daily life unbearable. "Are only the people of Kathmandu citizens? Aren’t the people of Dhunibesi and Kakani citizens too?" questioned Ram Babu Upreti, a resident who claims over 100 people in the area suffer from cancer and 46 have died after being hit by waste transport vehicles.

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Aren’t the people of Dhunibesi and Kakani citizens too?

Badri Bahadur Ojha, another resident, shared a personal tragedy, stating both his parents died of cancer, along with other relatives. He also suffers from lumps and boils on his body, attributing his and his neighbors' ailments to the landfill's toxic environment. Ward chairpersons from Dhunibesi Municipality and Kakani Rural Municipality confirm that thousands of residents are severely affected, reporting widespread cases of cancer, heart disease, kidney problems, diarrhea, typhoid, respiratory issues, and skin diseases.

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Both my father and mother died of cancer. My elder uncle and other relatives also died of cancer. Many people in the village have cancer.