KATHMANDU: Balen Shah, the Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), has raised grievances against both the Federal and State governments, accusing them of obstructing the city’s development initiatives.

Speaking at a program in Lalitpur, KMC Mayor Balen lamented that his efforts to implement various projects were met with legal challenges, as he found himself facing lawsuits when attempting to take action.

Expressing disappointment, Balen emphasized that local governments should be supported rather than hindered in their efforts to carry out essential tasks on behalf of the community.

He criticized the government for its lack of initiative in formulating necessary laws for waste management in the Kathmandu Valley, accusing the federal government of neglecting tasks that could be completed within minutes to an hour.

Balen specifically called on Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to address legal hurdles hindering the waste management project in Bancharedanda in Nuwakot.

He stressed the urgency for the government to take proactive measures to ensure the rivers of Kathmandu remain free from encroachment.

“We can swiftly address any local encroachments, but resolving river encroachment can be accomplished in the time it takes to attend the next program, if the concerned wishes,” Balen stated, highlighting the need for prompt action.

In a plea for coordinated development, he emphasized the importance of synchronizing the growth of all metropolitan cities in the Valley.

He cited conflicting federal and local laws as a barrier to progress, expressing dismay that the state government had resorted to legal action instead of supporting efforts to enhance the brightness of Kathmandu metropolis.