KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has reviewed its earlier order on construction permits along rivers and streams in the Kathmandu Valley and reinstated the previous building setback standards.
A full bench of Justices Sunil Kumar Pokharel, Balkrishna Dhakal, and Nripadhwaj Niraula issued the decision, allowing construction in accordance with the standards set on Mangsir 1, 2065 B.S.
According to the ruling, a 20-meter setback must be maintained from the banks of the Bagmati, Bishnumati, and Manohara rivers for construction activities.
In areas under project implementation along the Dhobikhola corridor, construction will be allowed based on approved planning, while in non-planned areas a 9-meter setback must be maintained.
Similarly, the court has mandated a 12-meter setback for the Nakkhu River, 10 meters for Balkhu, Karmanasa, Koike, Sale, and Mahadev rivers, 6 meters for Karkhusi, and 4 meters for Tukucha, Samakhusi, and other smaller streams.
The court has also clarified that no river, stream, or traditional water channel (rajkulo) should be encroached upon or covered under any circumstances.
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