In a decisive move to uphold judicial mandates, the Pokhara Metropolitan City has initiated the forceful removal of unauthorized buildings situated within the 65-meter criteria of Phewa Lake. The local government began deploying heavy machinery on Friday to dismantle structures that violate the conservation zone, following a directive from the Supreme Court of Nepal.
Mayor Dhanraj Acharya confirmed that this enforcement is a collaborative effort involving federal, provincial, and local authorities. This action follows the completion of the lake’s boundary marking last July, a process that spanned three years. With no stay order from the courts to halt the process, the city has moved forward with its plan to restore the lake's ecological integrity as part of the federal government’s 100-day priority agenda.
However, the late-night operations have sparked significant backlash from the local business community. Entrepreneurs operating along the shoreline claim they were blindsided by the dozers. Prakriti Subedi, a local business owner, expressed deep frustration, stating that demolitions began while residents were asleep. She alleged that the city had previously promised that land classification and compensation would precede any physical demolition.
The affected business owners have raised concerns regarding the transparency of the 65-meter rule's implementation. While expressing support for the conservation of Phewa Lake, they have accused the administration of partiality and failing to provide promised financial redress. Critics are demanding a uniform application of the law that doesn't disproportionately target specific sections of the waterfront.
Despite the protests, Mayor Acharya maintains that the city issued multiple public notices and formal letters prior to the action. The metropolitan office remains steadfast in its commitment to the court's verdict, asserting that protecting the natural beauty and area of Phewa Lake is non-negotiable for the city's future.
