April 28, Viratnagar – The government has decided to remove individuals illegally residing on the land of Nepal’s oldest industry, Viratnagar Jute Mills. In accordance with federal government policies, efforts are underway to evict unauthorized residents from the premises of Viratnagar Jute Mills. It is estimated that around 600 families reside within the mill-owned areas including Hattali Hat, South Gate, and Haringara Bhattas.
There are also plans to remove approximately 30 shops and businesses situated along the mill road. The process of clearing these unauthorized structures, which spread over an area of about 14 bighas, has been initiated. According to Rajendra Karki, Chairman of the Viratnagar Jute Mills Managing Committee, the eviction of settlements encroaching on the property is in its final phase.
Many individuals living illegally inside the Jute Mill premises also have homes in the Viratnagar market area. Established in 1936 BS (circa 1879 AD), Viratnagar Jute Mills is Nepal’s first modern industrial enterprise. The land of this industry once triggered a wave of industrial development along the Morang-Sunsari industrial corridor and other regions in the country. However, since 2013 BS (circa 1956 AD), the mill has been completely closed.
