DHADING, Oct 10: The landslide survivors in Chambas of Gajuri Municipality-2, Dhading, have been enduring a life as refugees for the past four years, and they have lost hope that anyone will address their plight.

On July 21, 2019, a significant landslide struck the entire settlement in Chambas, displacing 21 families. They had no way of seeking refuge in tents in Bahrabise. The living conditions have been deplorable, and they find it increasingly challenging to endure life in tents. Consequently, some have opted to return to their damaged homes in search of a better alternative.

The families of Harka Bahadur Tamang, Man Bahadur Tamang, and Rajan Tamang have returned to their homes, facing significant challenges in ensuring the safety of their children and elderly family members while living in tents. Renting a room in the market area is not affordable for them due to financial constraints. "We decided to return to our damaged homes, believing that if we have to face adversity, our homes are obviously a better place," they said.

Twelve families have managed to secure rented rooms in Gajuri.

Setimaya Tamang, a 66-year-old single woman who lost her movable and immovable property in the landslide, is unable to sustain a tent life.  "I have no children, and my husband passed away five years ago. I struggle to afford daily essentials and am constantly worried about the debt I owe to a local store for necessities like edible oil and rice," she said.

They have waited patiently for government efforts to relocate them to a safer settlement, but to no avail. As a result, their frustrations have been intense.

They have approached the ward office, rural municipality, district administration, and the Office of the Chief Minister multiple times with memoranda requesting rehabilitation. But their situation remains unchanged. The temporary shelter is unsafe for children, lacking sufficient food, space, and a conducive environment for studies, they complained.

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