KATHMANDU: Pokhara is facing a growing waste management crisis as garbage piles up on streets and public spaces, affecting residents, businesses, and tourists.
In areas like Buddhipark, New Bazaar, and Srijan Chowk, litter has accumulated despite clear signage discouraging dumping. Pedestrians are forced to cover their noses, and the stench from garbage heaps has spread to nearby hospitals and commercial areas.
The temporary landfill in Lameahal, Pokhara-32, is full, while permanent residents refuse to transport additional waste. Attempts to establish a permanent processing plant in Pokhara-33 have sparked protests from local communities concerned about environmental impacts and lack of consultation. These obstacles have left Mayor Dhanraj Acharya with limited options as garbage continues to clog public spaces.
Since early January 2023, eight private companies have been transporting waste to landfill sites. Many contracts were extended without competition, causing financial losses and drawing scrutiny from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority and the Auditor General’s Office. The municipality currently handles around 200 tons of waste daily.
Mayor Acharya and Chief Administrative Officer Mukti Aryal are exploring alternative sites, including Majhuwa in Pokhara-32, but no final decision has been reached. The municipality has urged residents to segregate waste at home and avoid dumping in public areas.
The city’s garbage problem is compounded by delays in land acquisition, cost assessments, and local opposition to the new processing plant. Acharya said that cooperation from local communities and political stakeholders is essential for a long-term solution.
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