Nepal Intensifies Eviction Drive on Public Land Amidst Urbanization Concerns

The current eviction drive across Nepal, targeting settlements and structures built on public land, highlights a complex issue of unmanaged urbanization that has unfolded over decades. While authorities are now acting under federal directives to reclaim this land, the reality on the ground is that many urban centers have grown on what was historically ailani (unregistered) or parti (uncultivated public) land. This situation has led to long-settled residents, many of whom operate businesses and have integrated into the local economy, facing the prospect of eviction without land ownership certificates.

The scale of encroachment is significant, with major urban areas and settlements along key highways developing on government-owned land. Despite the lack of formal ownership, these properties are routinely bought and sold, generating substantial revenue for individuals while depriving the state of potential income. Furthermore, local governments have continued to provide essential services like electricity, water, and road infrastructure to these settlements, implicitly acknowledging their existence and contributing to their growth.

This drive, while aimed at rectifying illegal occupation, presents a difficult dilemma for both the government and the affected residents. The government faces the challenge of balancing the need to enforce land laws and reclaim public property with the socio-economic impact on thousands of families who have established their lives on this land. The narrative from the ground often emphasizes the lack of clear land titles and the government's own role in extending services to these areas, creating a sense of injustice among those facing eviction. The situation underscores the long-standing issue of land management and urban planning in Nepal, where historical practices and evolving urban landscapes have created a challenging present.

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There are now at least 450 businesses operating in Bhalubang market, but nobody has land ownership certificates.