NUWAKOT, Nov 19: Garbage disposal at the Bancharedanda landfill has been disrupted again due to protests by local residents.
Vehicles carrying waste from the Kathmandu Valley were turned back after residents of Kakani (Nuwakot) and Dhunibeshi (Dhadhing) demanded the implementation of previous agreements, insisting that waste disposal must be scientifically managed and earlier commitments fulfilled.
Local residents had first announced an indefinite blockade in the second week of Kartik, citing unfulfilled commitments despite assurances from Urban Development Minister Kulman Ghising during his visit to the landfill on November 2. Residents said the verbal commitment to begin work within 15 days was not honored, prompting renewed disruption.
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“We were promised that the 18-point agreement reached on June 9, 2022 with a team led by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah would be implemented within 15 days, but no work has started yet,” said Niranjan Sanjel, a resident of Dhunibeshi-1.
The agreement included provisions for night-time waste disposal, minimizing odors, preventing leachate from reaching water sources, and ensuring scientific management of post-disposal processes.
Affected residents from Kakani-1, 2, and 3 and Dhunibeshi-1 and 3 have blocked roads leading to the landfill, preventing trucks from entering. They argue that delays in implementing the agreement have led to foul odors, increased risk of communicable diseases, and disruption of daily life in the area.
The protests have garnered support from local officials, elected representatives, and political party members in Kakani, Belkotgadhi (Nuwakot), and Dhunibeshi (Dhadhing). Residents have also demanded a written commitment from the ministerial level and the presence of responsible representatives at the site to ensure timely action.
