SC ruling alarms Kathmandu riverbank residents (Photos)

Kathmandu, September 7 — The Supreme Court's ruling on December 19, 2023, has sparked concern among residents living along the riverbanks in the Kathmandu Valley. The decision, which bans pollution and construction activities within 20 meters of riverbanks, has left those owning property in these areas worried about their land’s value.

Residents are bewildered by the Supreme Court's ruling and a subsequent notification from the Kathmandu Metropolitan City. The ruling specifies that an additional 20 meters beyond the riverbanks of Kathmandu Valley is now designated as a construction-free zone.

Property owners are particularly frustrated by the new regulation prohibiting any structures within 40 meters of the riverbanks of major rivers like Bagmati, Bishnumati, and Manohara, as well as their tributaries. They argue that this restriction renders their land nearly worthless.

The ruling has ignited debate across various forums, from local streets to the national legislature. Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah has called for a public notice to address the concerns, which has led to heated discussions in the municipal council meetings.

In response, the Kathmandu district committee of the CPN-UML has presented a memorandum to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, main opposition leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba to express their objections to the new regulations.

In 2008, the government had previously allowed a 20-meter construction zone along the Bagmati, Bishnumati, and Manohara rivers and established guidelines for other rivers and streams in the valley.

Photos: Nepal Photo Library