Kathmandu: A new Screening (Holding) Center has been brought into operation in Tilganga, Pashupati, under the joint initiative of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Pashupati Area Development Fund, and Manav Sewa Ashram. The center, operational since April 22 in Ward No. 8, has been established as part of the “Street Human Free” campaign.

On the first day of the operation, 36 street-dependent individuals were rescued from different parts of the Pashupati area. Among them, 28 were accommodated at the center, while a few reportedly left. The metropolis stated that more than half of those rescued were reunited with their families by the same evening.

Acting Chief Sunita Dangol inspected the facility and reviewed the condition, healthcare, and overall management of those rescued. During her visit, she interacted with individuals to understand their family backgrounds and the circumstances that led them to the streets.

Dangol emphasized that family reunification will be prioritized wherever possible, with institutional care being used only when necessary. The city has deployed rescue teams in three shifts—morning, afternoon, and night—to expand the outreach.

According to the metropolis, the center will assess each individual’s condition and categorize them based on needs such as family reintegration, mental health support, disability care, or medical treatment.

Among those rescued on the first day were 6 women and 22 men, aged between 25 and 78, from districts including Solukhumbu, Sarlahi, Makwanpur, Sunsari, Morang, Bara, Mahottari, Khotang, Dhankuta, Surkhet, and Dolakha. Four individuals were identified with mental health issues, while one elderly person was receiving treatment after a dog bite. Facilities have also been arranged for wheelchair users and those requiring mobility assistance.

Dangol stated that the campaign aims to ensure that no citizen is left hungry or homeless on the streets, reinforcing the message that “the government stands with those who have no one.”

Executive Director Subash Chandra Joshi has pledged continued support to further strengthen the center’s infrastructure and security.

The metropolis has also urged the public to report any stranded, sick, or helpless individuals seen on the streets by contacting Manav Sewa Ashram.