Apr 24, Kathmandu - Prime Minister Balendra Shah has announced that preparations are underway to humanely relocate settlements of squatters residing along riverbanks in the Kathmandu Valley to safer locations.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Prime Minister Shah highlighted that every year, thousands of citizens are displaced due to flooding. He recalled the constant struggle residents face annually to save their lives.

Shah emphasized that this issue has persisted for years and stressed the need for a long-term solution rather than temporary measures.

He pointed out that settlements along riverbanks not only pose flood risks but also obstruct drainage systems, further exacerbating environmental problems in the valley.

The Prime Minister clarified that areas with high-risk settlements, such as Thapathali, Gairigaun, and Manohara, would be relocated humanely without the use of force.

Referring to his commitments since the election and the government's primary plans, Shah stated that efforts to manage squatters will continue, with a focus on distinguishing genuine squatters from encroachers to implement sustainable solutions.

He also mentioned that preparations are ongoing to distribute land to genuine squatters across the country.