Stalled road widening leaves Hetauda in ruins amid court delays

Hetauda, Nepal, has been transformed into a "ruined townscape" for seven months due to a stalled highway widening project. Demolitions began in December last year, but court delays have brought construction to a standstill. The Supreme Court's interim order, issued in response to a new petition challenging the widening, has halted all progress. This follows the dismissal of 343 similar petitions previously.

Businesses that once thrived in the main market area now operate from partially damaged structures, posing risks to traders and customers. The uncertainty has deepened as the monsoon season arrives, with unfinished work exacerbating the situation. Residents and property owners are demanding compensation, while the Department of Roads insists structures encroaching on the designated road corridor must be cleared.

The core of the controversy lies in the government's plan to widen the East-West Highway through Hetauda's market to 25 meters on each side. Homeowners argue for compensation for their land and buildings. The latest petition, filed by resident Bindabasini Kansakar and others, seeks protection of their property during the widening drive. The case is scheduled for another hearing soon, with all parties awaiting the Supreme Court's final decision.

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The case is scheduled for a hearing again on Wednesday.