Gen-Z Movement Alliance Calls for Compassionate Approach in KMC’s Land Reclamation Drive
The Gen-Z Movement Alliance has raised concerns about the Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s (KMC) approach to removing squatter settlements from public land. In a recent statement, the alliance urged the local government to avoid acting with arrogance, contempt, or neglect toward marginalized communities during the ongoing land reclamation efforts.
The alliance emphasized that the KMC should prioritize empathy and collaboration over coercion when dealing with those affected by the city’s actions. This comes as the KMC and the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA) begin clearing encroached public land along riverbanks, including the Dhobikhola Corridor.
“We request the Kathmandu Metropolitan City to set an example by reaching an agreement with the concerned communities and ensuring appropriate management so that the capital becomes a shared city for all,” the statement said. “The local government should not wield the weapons of arrogance, contempt or disregard against defenseless and oppressed citizens.”
Transparency and Accountability Are Key
The alliance also called on the KMC to make public any studies conducted regarding squatter settlements within its jurisdiction. They highlighted the need for transparency, especially given the ongoing debates about who qualifies as a “genuine” or “fake” squatter.
“If the metropolis has studied the settlements within its area, it should release factual data and make the reality transparent,” the alliance stated. This call for openness aims to ensure that the process is fair and based on accurate information rather than assumptions or biases.
Legal Action Begins
Following the expiration of a seven-day public notice issued on October 31, the KMC, in coordination with the KVDA, has started reclaiming encroached public land. The initial phase of the drive focuses on the Dhobikhola river corridor, where authorities have identified over 168 ropani of government land that has been encroached upon.
According to KMC officials, the city plans to gradually clear these areas. KMC Assistant Spokesperson Dhruva Kumar Kafle clarified that the move is not targeted against squatters but is instead aimed at reclaiming public property in accordance with the law.
“We are not against squatters. We are taking legal action to free public land encroached upon by anyone,” Kafle said.
Protecting Marginalized Communities
The Gen-Z Movement Alliance, known for its advocacy of social justice and youth activism, stressed that any relocation or clearance process must respect the dignity and rights of marginalized citizens. They emphasized the importance of ensuring fair resettlement arrangements for those affected by the land reclamation efforts.
The alliance’s call for a compassionate and transparent approach highlights the broader challenges faced by marginalized communities in urban development projects. It underscores the need for inclusive policies that consider the voices and needs of all residents, not just those in positions of power.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Steps
As the KMC moves forward with its land reclamation efforts, the involvement of civil society organizations like the Gen-Z Movement Alliance will be crucial in ensuring that the process remains just and equitable. The alliance’s continued advocacy serves as a reminder that urban development must balance legal compliance with social responsibility.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining how the KMC handles this complex issue. If the city can demonstrate a commitment to fairness, transparency, and community engagement, it may set a positive precedent for future urban planning initiatives.