KATHMANDU: The eastern and southern parts of Kailali are facing increasing threats of river erosion, with the danger persisting even during winter.
In Tikapur Municipality Ward No. 9, the Karnali River has eroded two meters of land in the past week, prompting locals to appeal for immediate action from government representatives.
The erosion is threatening the Satti Karnali Community Forest and a temple in Tikapur Park, raising fears of flooding. Additionally, the Mohana River is eroding land in Khakraula, while the Patharaiya River is encroaching on areas near Dibipur.
Key areas at risk include 500 meters near Tikapur Park, 500 meters near Satti Karnali Forest, 300 meters in Phanta, one kilometer in Khakraula, and 700 meters in Dibipur.
Local residents warn that if river control measures are not implemented before the rainy season, widespread flooding is inevitable.
“Hundreds of bighas of land are turning into swamps due to erosion,” said Sher Bahadur Saund, a resident of Tikapur. “Placing boulders could have reduced the damage earlier, but no action has been taken.”
Khadak Dhami, a local social worker, called for urgent measures, including placing boulders in Khakraula, Phanta, and Dibipur.
Dhami and other residents recently brought the issue to the attention of Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah, Nepali Congress central member Dr Rana Bahadur Rawal, and federal MP Ishwori Devi Neupane.
On Thursday, lawmaker Neupane inspected the eroded area and acknowledged the severity of the situation.
“The situation is critical, and immediate steps are necessary,” said Neupane.
She pledged to push for emergency measures in Kathmandu. “Bouldering is not a costly solution, and the municipality should have taken action sooner,” she said.
Neupane assured residents that boulders would be installed as a short-term solution, with embankments planned for the long term.
She criticized the lack of initiative from local authorities, saying it had intensified public concern.
“All levels of government must work together to address this issue,” she added.
Residents fear that if erosion continues through winter, the situation during the rainy season will become unmanageable.
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