KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya has urged those who provide free food in open spaces in the capital to find alternatives.

The Volunteer groups have been distributing free food on the open stage since the time of the lockdown. There is a widespread criticism after the KMC asked them to stop saying that it has insulted the glory of the metropolis.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Mayor Shakya said that there were complaints from the people that the food was served in an unhealthy and unsafe manner without fulfilling the health safety standards amidst garbage, dust and crowds.

“I urge everyone to immediately find alternatives to the unhealthy and unsafe food feeding practices that are taking place in public places in the federal capital,” he said.

He also said that the KMC is ready to provide necessary assistance for them.

“Kathmandu should not be tagged as a city of homeless people. We don’t want anyone to try to make the world aware that Kathmandu is a city of beggars by feeding food in public places and on the streets and selling their stories,” he added.

He said that the employment will be given to those who are unemployed due to COVID-19 based on their ability and skill.

Mayor Shakya said, “If there are any metropolitan residents who have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 epidemic, please contact the ward office in your vicinity.