Government Clears Squatter Settlements in Kathmandu; Bhaktapur Evictions Scheduled for Sunday

The Government of Nepal has successfully carried out a peaceful clearance of squatter settlements in Thapathali and Gairigaun under the jurisdiction of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City on Saturday, while preparations are underway for further eviction in Bhaktapur starting Sunday.

Peaceful Clearance in Kathmandu Metropolitan City

On Saturday, authorities conducted coordinated eviction operations in:

• Thapathali Squatter Settlement
• Gairigaun Squatter Settlement

Officials confirmed that:

• The eviction was carried out peacefully without resistance
• Residents were relocated to temporary holding centers
• Heavy machinery was used to clear structures safely

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City stated that the operation was conducted in an organized and controlled manner.

Bhaktapur Set for Major Eviction Drive

Attention has now shifted to Bhaktapur, where clearance preparations are underway in the:

• Manohara River Area

According to Superintendent of Police Surya Bahadur Khadka of the District Police Range Bhaktapur:

• Around 80% of residents have already vacated voluntarily
• Families are still moving their belongings out
• Bulldozer operation is expected to begin on Sunday

Authorities have confirmed that final clearance will proceed once relocation is complete.

Settlement Overview: Manohara Area

• Over 1,600 people affected
• Approximately 777 huts in the settlement
• Majority already vacated before demolition
• Full clearance planned using bulldozers

Government’s Approach: Peaceful and Structured

Officials emphasized that the entire process has been:

• Peaceful and controlled
• Free from major conflict or resistance
• Supported by relocation to holding centers

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City stated that maintaining order and ensuring safe relocation were top priorities during the clearance.

Expansion of Riverbank Clearance Campaign

This action is part of a broader urban cleanup initiative targeting illegal settlements along riverbanks, especially:

• Bagmati River corridor in Kathmandu
• Manohara River area in Bhaktapur

Authorities aim to:

• Reduce flood risks
• Remove encroachments
• Improve urban planning and environmental safety

The coordinated eviction drive across Kathmandu and Bhaktapur marks one of the most significant government-led settlement clearance efforts in recent years. While Kathmandu’s operations have already concluded peacefully, Bhaktapur is set to follow with full-scale demolition beginning Sunday.