Government Relocates Squatter Settlements in Kathmandu Valley, Residents Concerned About Children's Education and Livelihoods

Kathmandu. The government has initiated the process of vacating squatter settlements in various areas of the Kathmandu Valley, including Thapathali, Sinamangal, Manohara, Shankhamul, and Balaju, and relocating the people residing there. 

Currently, after 'screening' at Dashrath Stadium, they have been managed at Radha Swami Vyas Satsang in Kirtipur, the Agricultural Development Bank's training center in Bode, and Kharipati in Bhaktapur.

The common concern for most families housed in the holding centers is now their children's education. Dambar Tamang, residing at the Kirtipur holding center, showed a drawing made by his daughter and said, "The government's decision on where to move us is uncertain, but I am worried about my daughter's education being disrupted. We have been here for eight days, food and accommodation are fine, but there is no arrangement for education."

Manoj Mahato, also living there, stated that he has a family of four, including his two children, and urged the government to make arrangements for the children's education. "It would be much easier if some initiative was taken for the children's studies," he said.

• Worry Over Lost Employment

Although temporary accommodation has been arranged, the concern about work is beginning to trouble many. Padambahadur Tamang, who came to the holding center from the Thapathali settlement, used to do painting work at homes. He left his job when the notice to vacate the settlement arrived. Now, he spends his days contemplating at the holding center.

With bulldozers simultaneously clearing settlements in all parts of the valley, many people have become homeless. Some are staying in holding centers, while others are seeking shelter in hotels or with relatives. Some have already rented rooms for themselves. However, those who used to earn a daily wage are now unemployed.

Those who used to go to work daily are now seen anxiously waiting in the holding centers. While the stay in the holding center is good, their demand is that the government should quickly arrange for permanent housing and employment.

• Improving Conditions at Holding Centers

Radha Swami Vyas Satsang is currently managing the food arrangements at the Kirtipur holding center. Since the 16th, arrangements for breakfast and dinner, along with two snacks and tea, have been in place.

Residents, who had previously complained about the packet food brought from hotels, now appear satisfied. Vijay Magar says, "Previously, the packed food from hotels was not sufficient or of good quality. But now, we get food like at home, and we can have extra servings."

Initially forced to sleep under the open sky, they now feel relieved with the arrangement of tents. With the provision of about 150 tents, the problem of rain splashes has also been resolved, according to them.

Nutritious food and milk have been arranged for nursing mothers and infants. Anjali Paswan, a mother who gave birth five months ago, said, "The arrangements for stay and food are good. Nutritious food is also being provided for the babies."

Similarly, a health desk has been set up at the holding center, where regular health check-ups are being conducted for the sick and those in need.

(Photo: Nepal Photo Library)