KATHMANDU: Locals staged protests after the Pokhara Metropolitan City used bulldozers to demolish structures built around Phewa Lake on Saturday morning.
The protest erupted after the metropolis began dismantling temporary huts as part of its drive to remove encroachments around the lake area. Affected locals obstructed the road, expressing anger over the demolition.
Residents said the bulldozing has affected their businesses and livelihoods. The protest also disrupted vehicular movement in the area.
While the metropolis maintains that the campaign is aimed at protecting the lake and controlling encroachment, locals have expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the structures were demolished without providing any alternative arrangements.
According to officials, the action was carried out following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs Nepal. Temporary structures built within 65 meters of the lake area were targeted in the operation starting early Saturday morning.
Meanwhile, a bulldozer was also used at the Pokhara-based Hotel Waterfront owned by noted tourism entrepreneur Karna Shakya. Police demolished structures including the hotel’s swimming pool and gate during the operation.
A few days earlier, Prime Minister Balen Shah and Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya had reportedly discussed the issue of Phewa Lake over the phone.
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