The government has decided to provide a one-time rehabilitation grant of Rs 25,000 to landless squatters displaced from riverbanks in the Kathmandu Valley.
Government spokesperson and Communications Minister Sasmit Pokharel said that a Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday decided to provide each displaced family with a lump-sum payment of Rs 25,000, along with monthly support of at least Rs 15,000 for up to three months.
He said that a monthly relief amount of Rs 15,000 will be provided to families of up to five members to encourage those removed from high-risk settlements to manage their own accommodation.
For families with more than five members, an additional Rs 2,000 per month will be provided for each additional member, covering their accommodation management costs for three months, he added.
Furthermore, the minister mentioned that the elderly, sick, disabled, and those unable to manage on their own will be accommodated at designated holding centers.
The government has also decided to ensure the health and education of children from these families through cooperation and coordination with local levels.
Around 18,000 people, comprising about 3,000 families, were displaced during the demolition drive carried out using bulldozers from April 25 to May 4.
They are currently being housed in holding centers across various locations, including Sundarighat, Banepa, Nagarkot, and Kharipati. Some families have also moved into government-built apartments in Ichangu.
