Kathmandu, May 29: The government, formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Balen Shah, had launched a campaign to demolish all unauthorized settlements along riverbanks using bulldozers. The campaign is still ongoing across the country.
Both the central and local governments in different parts of the country continue to remove illegal structures built near roads and rivers. As a result of the government’s actions, many people have been displaced.
After taking charge of the Home Ministry himself, Prime Minister Balen began the drive against unauthorized structures from Thapathali in Kathmandu. Bulldozers have since been used along the banks of the Bagmati River in Thapathali and Balkhu, as well as along the Dhobikhola, Manohara River, and Bishnumati River corridors.
A large number of riverside slums and homes have now been removed, and hundreds of people are being forced to live in holding centers. They are anxiously waiting for the government to arrange permanent housing.
The photographs presented here show the now-desolate banks of the Bagmati River.
Photos: Jonas Sell (USA intern photographer)
