KATHMANDU: Squatters in Pokhara staged protests on Monday, expressing growing concern over demolition drives targeting informal settlements in Kathmandu.
Chanting slogans such as “Stop bulldozer terror,” demonstrators took to the streets, opposing forced evictions without proper rehabilitation measures.
The protest follows a 35-day ultimatum issued by Pokhara Metropolitan City, directing residents to vacate structures built on public land. The notice was published after an executive meeting decision earlier this month.
According to local residents, around 475 households in a settlement near the bus park area in Ward No. 9 are at risk of displacement. They have insisted they will not leave unless alternative housing arrangements are guaranteed.
To press their demands, the protesters submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister through the District Administration Office. Prior to that, they organized a rally and held a corner assembly at Prithvi Chowk.
The demonstrators have urged authorities to ensure proper resettlement before carrying out any demolition activities.
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