KATHMANDU, Aug 11: Experts have expressed concern over the extremely limited area of open space in the Kathmandu Valley, warning that this shortage increases disaster risk.
The valley covers 721 sq. km, but according to official reports, public open land accounts for only 372 hectares (3.72 sq. km) — just 0.51% of the total area, which is extremely low. Experts say urban areas should have at least 5% open space and for earthquake-prone areas like Kathmandu, 10–15% open space is necessary.
A preliminary study conducted by the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA) found that only 0.51% of the valley is public open space. Ideally, there should be at least one open area within a 15-minute walk in any direction, but this standard is not met in Kathmandu Valley. Open spaces are crucial during disasters for shelter as well as for recreation and public health.
KTM Valley sitting on ticking bomb due to open space dearth
Similarly, open spaces are essential for children to play and for the elderly to walk and exercise. In the event of a fire or an earthquake, people need a safe place to run to and stay. The KVDA’s study measured open spaces in the Kathmandu Valley including public parks.
This measurement includes public parks such as Balaju, Bhrikuti Mandap, UN Park, Lainchaur Park, and 50 others, but does not include private open land. The KVDA is running land-pooling programs in 24 locations, requiring at least 5% open space in new developments — although older programs had only 2–3%.
There are 887 public open areas across the valley: 488 in Kathmandu District, 346 in Lalitpur and 53 in Bhaktapur.
Experts say that for the Kathmandu Valley, having just five percent open space is not sufficient. They argue that the government has neglected preparedness measures to reduce earthquake risks. According to experts, simply having adequate open spaces is not enough — citizens must also be informed about the routes to reach these spaces quickly in times of disaster. Officials at the KVDA believe that the government should introduce strict policies to increase open spaces in the Kathmandu Valley.
The KVDA is preparing a comprehensive master plan for Kathmandu’s development, which includes the open-space study. The Ministry of Urban Development has approved the Urban Policy 2081, targeting disaster management, technology, and sustainable development.
