Kathmandu: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has taken proactive steps to tackle the challenges posed by human settlements in the river corridors of Kathmandu Valley. In a recent meeting led by Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, heads and officers from relevant ministries and agencies gathered to devise a joint strategy for resolving the longstanding issue. The primary focus was to ensure a coordinated approach among various stakeholders involved in the effort.

The meeting reached a consensus that the High-powered Committee for Integrated Development of Bagmati Civilization, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, and the National Land Commission should convene urgently to address the problem within a specific timeframe. To achieve this, a task force will be formed with representatives from key ministries such as Home, Urban Development, Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Land Management, Poverty Alleviation, and the High-powered Committee.

During the event, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha emphasized the importance of working in synergy to address unauthorized settlements along the Bagmati Corridor. He underscored that while eradicating slums was essential, it should be done in tandem with a proper resettlement plan to ensure fair treatment of genuine squatters.

Minister for Urban Development, Sita Gurung, reminded attendees of the government's policy and budget provisions that pertain to relocating settlements in the river corridor. She also warned against violating the rights of legitimate squatters while removing slums.

Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration, Amanlal Modi, expressed the ministry's readiness to collaborate with local levels to tackle settlement-related issues in the river corridors effectively.

Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor, Balendra Sah, sought assistance from the Ministry of Home Affairs in addressing the challenge of unorganized settlements along the Bagmati Corridor, highlighting the significance of collective efforts in finding lasting solutions.

With the MoHA taking the lead and emphasizing collaboration between relevant ministries and agencies, there is hope for significant progress in resolving the problems concerning river corridor settlements in Kathmandu Valley. The coordinated initiative aims to strike a balance between urban development and humanitarian concerns, ultimately leading to the improvement of living conditions for affected communities.