KATHMANDU: The construction of the Janakpur-Bardibas railway project in Bardibas, Mahottari has been brought to a standstill following opposition from local landowners.
The residents of Bardibas Municipality-14 halted the project, accusing the Railway Department of initiating the bidding process without addressing longstanding compensation disputes.
Fourteen families residing near the railway station area have demanded proper demarcation of land, resolution of disputes, and fair compensation. Local resident Malti Khanal stated that the protest erupted because the department acted arbitrarily without resolving the issues.
According to locals, the Railway Department has inconsistently provided compensation, with some landowners receiving payments while others have waited for years. Landowner Neeraj Adhikari alleged that the department’s hasty bidding process further undermines trust in its intentions.
Discrepancies in compensation have exacerbated the conflict. While some land was compensated at rates of Rs 6.1 million per plot in 2022, 14 families without land title deeds have been left in limbo. Former ward chairman Bharat Bahadur Hamal revealed that the Railway Department acknowledges the need for compensation but cites technical and legal hurdles.
Assistant Chief District Officer Upendra Neupane noted that locals have rejected compensation offers deemed insufficient for relocation. He emphasized that residents demand adequate support to rebuild their lives elsewhere.
Janakpur Railway Information Officer Kamal Sah stated that compensation cannot be legally provided without land title deeds. However, the issue has been escalated to the Ministry and Land Commission, with the Council of Ministers directing officials to prepare documentation for compensation. Sah expressed optimism that the aggrieved landowners will soon receive their dues.
In the meantime, work on the railway project, including soil filling, bridge construction, and property clearance, remains completely halted. Efforts are ongoing, with affected residents holding discussions with the Railway Department, Ministry, and other stakeholders in Kathmandu.
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