KATHMANDU: The government has said it will make proper housing arrangements for genuine landless people in Kathmandu within the next 10 to 15 days, even as it ordered the immediate clearance of illegal settlements along riverbanks.
Issuing an urgent public notice on Friday, the District Administration Office Kathmandu directed residents living in unauthorized structures on public and government land along riverbanks to vacate the area by 7 pm on April 24.
The administration stated that such settlements have long obstructed public movement, urban infrastructure development, and the natural flow of rivers in the Valley.
According to the notice, demolition of the structures will begin from 6 am on April 25, with authorities set to clear all encroached land. The directive applies not only to those residing in the settlements but also to tenants and individuals running businesses in those areas.
The administration has urged residents to remove their belongings, including household items and livestock, and shift to safer locations immediately. It has also instructed that vulnerable groups—such as persons with disabilities, senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and the sick—be relocated on priority.
Residents unable to dismantle their structures or move belongings have been asked to seek assistance from metropolitan police, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force.
The government has committed to providing temporary housing with basic minimum facilities at designated locations for those displaced. It also said that a screening process will be launched to identify genuine landless squatters after relocation.
According to the notice signed by Assistant Chief District Officer and spokesperson Muktiram Rijal, arrangements for verified landless individuals will be made within 10 to 15 days.
The administration has warned that failure to comply with the directive will result in joint action by local authorities, police, and the metropolitan office. Any damage to structures or personal property during enforcement will be the responsibility of the individuals concerned.
It also cautioned that anyone attempting to obstruct the eviction process will face legal action in accordance with the law.
Comment