Government launches campaign to remove high-risk settlements along Bagmati River

Kathmandu: The government has launched a campaign to remove high-risk settlements along the banks of the Bagmati River and its tributaries in Balkhu and Bansighat from today.

The operation is being carried out by the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, in coordination with concerned agencies.

Under the campaign, a total of 686 structures are set to be removed, including 486 huts in Balkhu and 200 structures in Bansighat. Demolition has begun using dozers.

The government said the move has been prioritised to prevent possible loss of life and property due to floods and inundation during the monsoon.

It also stated that similar actions will be gradually extended to upstream areas, including Shankhamul.

Regarding squatters in other areas, the government clarified that eviction will proceed only after preparing a concrete plan for proper identification and safe resettlement.