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Testing of Nagdhunga Tunnel to Be Completed within Baishakh, Commercial Operations to Begin from Next Fiscal Year

The government plans to complete preparations for the operation of the Nagdhunga Tunnel within the current fiscal year and commence commercial operations from Shrawan. The Department of Roads is preparing to open the tunnel for traffic testing from the last week of Baishakh or the first week of Jestha. The total length of the Nagdhunga Tunnel is 2,688 meters, with access roads extending the total length to 5.06 kilometers, which is expected to reduce traffic congestion on the Kathmandu–Nauvise road. Kathmandu, 13 Baishakh.

Last year, the government intended to operate the Nagdhunga Tunnel during emergencies to alleviate traffic jams during the monsoon and Dashain festivals, but that plan was not realized. This time, all advance preparations are expected to be completed within the current fiscal year, with commercial operation scheduled to begin from Shrawan of the upcoming fiscal year. According to Soujanya Nepal, chief of the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project under the Department of Roads, the tunnel will be opened for vehicle traffic for testing from the end of Baishakh or the first week of Jestha.

However, traffic during this testing phase will be limited to a specific period and designated vehicles only. The functionality of the installed equipment will be tested, alongside training of staff and deployment of emergency services such as firefighters and ambulances. The decision regarding whether to collect tolls from road users during this period is still pending, according to official Nepal. “Currently, the project is planning to operate the tunnel for testing purposes from the last week of Baishakh or the first week of Jestha, and if successful, commercial operation will commence from the start of the next fiscal year,” he said.

Meanwhile, work to prevent landslides at the entrance to Dhading is ongoing and aims to be completed before the monsoon. The project has assigned Yusin-ART JV the responsibility to operate and manage the tunnel for the next five years. The contract awarded to this project is worth NPR 110 crore, with an annual payment commitment of NPR 22 crore. However, the road toll collection assigned under the project will be conducted by the Road Board, and the collected funds will be deposited into the government’s revenue account. The operating company will be paid according to the terms of the contract.

Gyanendra Shahi’s Warning: KP Oli’s Situation Will Worsen If Ordinance Is Introduced

Summary: Parliamentary party leader of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), Gyanendra Shahi, has urged the government to resolve public issues through legislative processes in parliament rather than avoiding it. Shahi warned that the government’s attempt to govern through ordinances instead of passing laws would lead to serious political consequences. He emphasized that issues such as the squatter problem, the stalled Land Reform Act, and land management must be addressed by passing laws in parliament. 13 Baishakh, Kathmandu.

Gyanendra Shahi, the parliamentary party leader of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), called on the government to solve public problems through legislative processes in parliament instead of evading it. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu on Sunday, Shahi warned that any attempt by the government to govern through ordinances rather than laws would have serious political repercussions. “It is parliament that must pass laws. The government may consider bringing ordinances, but if that happens, KP Oli’s position will become serious. While parliament is in session, do not start work through ordinances,” he said.

Also serving as the party spokesperson, Shahi stressed that parliament is the platform that represents the voice of the people, and the government is the mechanism to implement it. He noted that a strong government increases the need for a functioning parliament. Shahi pointed out that issues such as the squatter problem, the stalled Land Reform Act, and land management must be resolved through laws passed in parliament. “When the government is strong, the need for parliament becomes even greater because we practice democracy and laws must be enacted. Currently, there is the squatter problem,” Shahi said. “Is it possible to manage squatters without a law? The Land Reform Act is stalled, isn’t it? Who will make the Land Reform Act—RPP’s government or another government?”

He further criticized the lack of intergovernmental coordination, noting that some decisions made by the federal government were not implemented at the provincial and local levels, and stressed that the government must take this seriously. “Run the parliament. Don’t avoid parliament. If parliament is the platform that speaks for the people, then the government must implement it,” he added.

‘सडकमा सामान भिज्यो, फेर्ने लुगा र खाने औषधि छैन’ – Online Khabar

Displaced Residents Suffer as Belongings Soak in the Rain, Unable to Change Clothes or Take Medicine

The government has demolished informal settlements in Kathmandu and relocated 219 families to the holding center at Dashrath Rangashala. Health workers have reported that many residents have missed their medication, lacked food, and experienced health issues as a result of the demolition. Medical examinations revealed 47 individuals with weakness and blood pressure problems, and an elderly kidney patient has been referred to Bir Hospital. April 26, Kathmandu.

Sixty-year-old Samjhana Rai is trembling inside the holding center at Dashrath Rangashala in Tripureshwor. Sitting quietly on the floor amid the crowd, her face appears pale and her eyes watery. She is a long-time hypertensive patient who requires regular medication. “My body is shaking. I haven’t been able to take my medicine. I am hungry. I couldn’t sleep all night,” she told a health worker while wiping tears.

Her voice is soft and she tires after speaking for a few moments. “There is nothing left now,” she said tearfully. She had been living in a shack near Manohara River for the past 14 years. On Sunday morning, the government deployed a bulldozer and demolished the shack in an instant. “They didn’t even give us time to move our belongings,” she explained. In the rush to evacuate, many of her possessions were lost. “I don’t know where my medication is. I don’t even have clothes to change,” she said emotionally.

Gopal Sunar, 46, whose face shows signs of worry and exhaustion, had his blood pressure measured by health workers, which registered 160/100 on the machine. “His blood pressure is very high,” said health worker Indira Pokharel. Gopal shared, “I am a patient who does not take medicine regularly. The large stress might have caused this rise.” He said that after the government dismantled a small shack made of herbal plants, he experienced significant stress. “Now, the future of my children looks bleak,” Gopal said, expressing his despair.

Government Focuses on Only 23 Cooperatives Despite Rs 200 Billion Savings to be Returned to the Public

The government has announced an allocation of only NPR 25 crore to the revolving fund for refunding the savings of depositors in problematic cooperatives. Nationwide, there are around 32,000 cooperative institutions holding approximately NPR 1.2 trillion in savings, with 63,000 affected members demanding the return of their deposits. Former Secretary Gopinath Mainali stated that political protection in the cooperative sector has prevented resolution of these issues, and the government has repeatedly given only assurances.

Millions of people who have deposited money in cooperatives across the country have been waiting for years to recover their savings from these institutions. Various task forces have been formed, reports prepared, and even legal amendments made concerning this issue. However, depositors have yet to receive any guarantee for the reimbursement of their savings. After the Jana Aandolan (People’s Movement), the National Independent Party (Rastriya Swatantra Party – RASWA) formed the government with a majority mandate and pledged to refund cooperative victims’ savings within the first 100 days, but cooperative depositors remain uncertain about receiving their money, as banks prioritize other creditors.

Through the fiscal year’s budget announcement, the government declared it will place funds in a revolving fund to refund cooperative depositors. However, the government plans to contribute only NPR 25 crore as seed money to this fund. According to the Office for the Management of Problematic Cooperatives, there are 63,000 depositors demanding refunds, who belong to just 23 problematic cooperatives.

Although the government has repeatedly insisted that the regulation and supervision of cooperatives should be handled by Nepal Rastra Bank, the central bank has stepped back from this responsibility. A senior official from the Ministry of Cooperatives revealed that previous governments were unable to refund depositors’ savings due to political obligations to protect political leaders and activists involved in these cooperatives. “About 90 percent of cooperatives are run by individuals with political backgrounds,” the official added.

Sapkota: Many Federalism Issues Will Be Resolved if Rastriya Swatantra Party Works With Determination

Madhav Sapkota ‘Subodh’, a central member of the Communist Party of Nepal, stated that legal ambiguities and overlapping budgets at different levels have caused problems in the effective implementation of federalism. Sapkota pointed out that although the constitution grants all levels of government the right to utilize resources, the absence of necessary laws has resulted in contradictions.

Speaking at an event held in Kathmandu on Sunday, Sapkota said, “Every level of government is given the right to use its own kinds of resources and means. However, because laws have not regulated this, contradictions have emerged.” He noted that when local governments, provincial governments, and the federal government allocate similar types and characters of budgets for infrastructure, the effectiveness diminishes.

He emphasized that budgets for sectors such as education, health, and agriculture should be focused at the local government level, and the federal government should lead the creation of laws in accordance with the constitution. He added, “Currently, the Rastriya Swatantra Party is leading the parliament with nearly two-thirds support. It is my understanding that if work is carried out with strong determination, many issues related to federalism can be resolved.”

कोलकाताले सुपर ओभरमा लखनउलाई हरायो – Online Khabar

Kolkata Defeats Lucknow in IPL 2026 Super Over Thriller

Kolkata Knight Riders triumphed over Lucknow Super Giants in a super over during the IPL 2026. Kolkata reached the 2-run target in just one ball of the super over, securing their victory. Rinku Singh was the standout performer for Kolkata, scoring an unbeaten 83 runs, while Mohsin Khan took 5 wickets for Lucknow. The match took place on April 14 in Kathmandu.

The IPL 2026 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants culminated in the season’s first super over on Sunday midnight. After both teams scored 155 runs in the allotted 20 overs, the game was pushed into a thrilling super over. Lucknow’s Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram came out to bat first in the super over. On the first ball, Sunil Narine bowled Pooran out, followed by captain Rishabh Pant scoring a run before Markram was caught out.

Chasing 2 runs, Rinku Singh and Rovman Powell achieved the target in just the first ball. Rinku struck a boundary on the very first delivery. Earlier, Lucknow narrowly missed their target of 156 after scoring 155 with 8 wickets down in 20 overs. The final over was dramatic with Kartik Tyagi bowling, and batters Mohammad Shami and Himansh Singh at the crease. After a combination of byes, no-balls, and boundaries, the last ball was struck for a six, forcing the match into a super over. However, Lucknow could not capitalize on this opportunity.

Rishabh Pant led Kolkata’s batting with a top score of 42 runs, followed by Aiden Markram with 31, Ayush Badoni with 24, and Himansh Singh contributing 19 runs. For Kolkata, Vaibhav Arora and Varun Chakravarthy took 2 wickets each, while Anukul Roy, Cameron Green, Sunil Narine, and Kartik Tyagi grabbed one wicket apiece. Having lost the toss and batting first, Kolkata posted 155 runs for 7 wickets in their 20 overs. Rinku Singh was the aggressive finisher, remaining unbeaten on 83 off 51 balls. He forged a 62-run partnership with Sunil Narine, who remained not out on 4. Rinku notably struck four consecutive sixes off Digvijay Rathi in the final over. Cameron Green added 34 runs, and captain Ajinkya Rahane contributed 10. Mohsin Khan delivered exceptional bowling for Lucknow, taking 5 wickets for just 23 runs in 4 overs, while George Linde claimed one wicket.

With this win, Kolkata Knight Riders have climbed to eighth place on the points table with 5 points from 8 matches, while Lucknow Super Giants drop to the bottom with 4 points from 8 games.

Budhigandaki Hydropower Project to Take 9 Years; Timelines for Other Major Energy Projects Announced

The government has set a deadline to complete 18 large hydropower projects by the fiscal year 2092/093 (2035), aiming to generate 24,500 megawatts of electricity. The Budhigandaki reservoir project, with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts, is targeted for completion by 2091 (2034). Responsibility for this project has been assigned to the Budhigandaki Hydropower Company. Meanwhile, Nepal Electricity Authority aims to produce 1,000 megawatts of solar power by 2085 (2028-29), and the private sector plans to complete projects totaling 14,000 megawatts by 2092 (2035). The following details were reported from Kathmandu on 13 Baishakh.

The government has already outlined completion schedules for major hydropower projects. According to the “Energy Consumption Growth and Export Strategy, 2083” prepared by the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, the 18 hydropower projects listed in the strategy are to be completed by 2092/093 (2035). These projects are expected to collectively generate 24,500 megawatts of electricity.

Among them is the nationally significant 1,200-megawatt Budhigandaki reservoir project, set to be completed within the next 9 years by 2091 (2034). The Budhigandaki Hydropower Company has been entrusted with this project, while the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Finance, Department of Electricity Development, and Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) serve as coordinating bodies. Similarly, the 670-megawatt Dudh Koshi reservoir project also has a completion deadline set for 2091 (2034).

This project is wholly owned by the Nepal Electricity Authority and is being developed with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Located at Rabhung Ghat on the border of Khotang and Okhaldhunga districts, the Dudh Koshi project was also included in this fiscal year’s budget speech. The 1,061-megawatt Upper Arun project is also targeted for completion within nine years, by 2091 (2034).

The 828-megawatt Uttar Ganga Hydropower project aims for completion within 10 years. Planned in Baglung, this project has been discussed since 2061 (2004-05). Built by the Nepal Electricity Authority’s subsidiary, Uttar Ganga Hydropower Company, its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report was approved in 2080 (2023-24). Following EIA approval, the target was to begin construction within three years and start power generation within seven years. However, the project remains in the study phase so far.

The government has set a completion deadline for this project as well by 2091 (2034). The 490-megawatt Arun-4 hydropower project is scheduled for completion within 8 years, by 2090 (2033). This project is under joint investment by Nepal Electricity Authority and India’s Satyaj Hydropower Corporation, with a bilateral agreement signed by both countries in 2079 (2022-23).

The 417-megawatt Nalgad project is also targeted for completion within nine years, by 2091 (2034). Situated on the Nalgad River in Jajarkot district, its detailed project report was prepared in 2073 (2016-17), with a plan to start construction within two years. However, this project currently remains stalled.

The 439-megawatt Baitadi Karnali Hydropower project is slated for completion within eight years, by 2090 (2033). This project will be developed by the Baitadi Karnali Hydropower Company and aims for completion within this timeframe. Nepal Electricity Authority targets generating over 1,000 megawatts from solar energy. The goal is to implement solar energy plans within the next two years, by 2085 (2028-29). Government-owned NEA and its subsidiaries aim to complete approximately 3,500 megawatts of capacity by 2092 (2035). The private sector also targets completing around 14,000 megawatts of solar and other energy projects within the same timeframe.

Electric Microbus Traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara Crashes in Dhading

April 25, Kathmandu – An electric microbus (EV) heading from Kathmandu to Pokhara met with an accident in Dhading. Twelve people were injured in the crash. Among the injured, five are being transferred to Kathmandu for further treatment, according to the Dhading District Police Office. The microbus, bearing the registration number Ba 13 Cha 2941, crashed near Adamghat, ward no. 6 of Gajuri Rural Municipality, police sources reported.

चेल्सी एफए कप फुटबलको फाइनलमा – Online Khabar

Chelsea Advances to FA Cup Final

Chelsea has secured its place in the FA Cup football final by defeating Leeds United 1-0 in the semifinals. Enzo Fernandez’s goal in the 23rd minute proved decisive in securing the victory for Chelsea. In the final, Chelsea will face Manchester City. On 13 Baisakh, Kathmandu, Chelsea reached the English FA Cup football final. In the semifinal match held on Sunday evening, Chelsea emerged victorious against Leeds United. The match at Wembley Stadium ended 1-0 in favor of Chelsea. Enzo Fernandez’s 23rd-minute goal was the key to Chelsea’s triumph. Now, Chelsea will compete against Manchester City for the title, with City having secured their final spot by defeating Southampton on Saturday night.

Picturesque Chaite Rice Cultivation Along Tamor and Lambukhola Riverbanks

The Lambukhola Majuwa flatland, located on the border between Myanglung Municipality and Chathar Rural Municipality in Tehrathum, has been completely transformed into lush greenery by Chaite rice cultivation. Farmers from Kummayak Rural Municipality–5 in Panchthar primarily farm here, where the tradition of community labor remains vibrant. Lambu Dobhan–Majuwa flatland is not only a site of natural beauty but also a vital agricultural hub, sustaining farming despite challenges such as flood risks and a shortage of young laborers.

Situated within Tehrathum’s Myanglung Municipality and Chathar Rural Municipality and adjoining Panchthar’s Kummayak Rural Municipality, the Lambukhola Majuwa flatland is currently covered in vibrant green due to the Chaite rice crop. This expansive, flat terrain stretches between towering hills on both sides, where the gently swaying rice plants present a captivating view. The verdant expanse offers more than just visual relief; it reflects the farmers’ hard work, hopes, and a promising future.

Local farmers from Bhulke, Kummayak Rural Municipality–5 in Panchthar, are actively engaged in key agricultural activities here. This rare flat and fertile land nestled within the mountainous region of Lambu Dobhan receives rich soil, adequate water supply, and favorable climate conditions, yielding excellent harvests every year. Especially suited for Chaite rice cultivation, this area has established itself as an agricultural production center within the district.

Chaite rice, harvested just before the monsoon season, provides farmers not only with food security but also with an additional source of income. Although the land falls within Tehrathum, farmers from Bhulke, Kummayak Rural Municipality–5 of Panchthar, have been cultivating here for generations. The tradition of working collectively during planting, helping one another, and sharing labor continues to thrive. The synchronized rhythm of farmers working together in the fields vividly reflects the village’s sense of community and warmth.

Rubina Acharya Launches Campaign to Stay Close to Her Constituents

Rubina Acharya, the elected Member of Parliament from Morang-6, has initiated a campaign titled “The People’s Representative Among the People” following the conclusion of the winter session of Parliament. Acharya is conducting direct public meetings across all wards of Morang-6, gathering local issues and public grievances. She has proposed necessary measures to improve education, combat drug abuse, promote agricultural development, and enhance hospital services. (April 13, Morang)

During the election campaign, many voters voiced complaints that “leaders become distant from the public after winning elections.” Rubina Acharya, elected under the National Independent Party (RASWAPA) from Morang-6, heard similar concerns from numerous constituents. After the winter session ended, Acharya embarked on the “The People’s Representative Among the People” campaign, visiting voters at their doorsteps.

“A people’s representative must always remain among the people. Through direct meetings, continuous dialogue, and cultivating a culture of listening to the people’s voice, real problems can be identified and resolved,” Acharya stated. “Since the completion of the first session of Parliament, I have been advancing this campaign through site visits and public engagement programs within my electoral area.” She has also committed to continuing this campaign after every parliamentary session.

“I am conducting direct public meetings in all wards of Morang-6 to collect local problems, challenges, and grievances,” she elaborated. “Direct dialogue with constituents is the real foundation for addressing regional issues.” Acharya informed that she is progressing necessary steps to institutionalize feedback and suggestions received from voters through the Secretariat Committee of Morang-6. During her field visits, she inspected government schools, public hospitals, flood-prone and erosion-affected areas, as well as places undergoing soil excavation.

“Through direct communication with local residents, I have collected their problems, complaints, and suggestions,” Acharya explained. “It was observed that educational conditions are weak and marginalized communities have limited access to education. I will strive to address this problem.” She emphasized the indispensable role of local governments in ensuring quality education. With rising drug abuse among youth posing a serious societal challenge, Acharya concluded that a comprehensive long-term strategy is essential.

“Without public awareness campaigns, strict monitoring, effective rehabilitation programs, and participation of families and communities, this issue cannot be resolved,” she said. “In agriculture, opportunities must be developed, local production promoted, and farmer-friendly policies effectively implemented.” She also underscored the need for timely, quality completion of ongoing infrastructure projects and called attention to responsible agencies. Regarding hospital services, Acharya has raised her voice emphasizing that patients deserve quality care. She recommended prompt initiatives to improve hospital management and service delivery to make them effective, accessible, and people-friendly.

डडेल्धुरामा झाडापखला लागेका बालकको मृत्यु – Online Khabar

7-Year-Old Boy Dies from Diarrhea in Dadeldhura

A 7-year-old boy, Yuvraj Budhamagar, suffering from diarrhea in Dadeldhura, died en route to medical treatment. Keshar Saud, Chief of the Dadeldhura Health Office, confirmed the death was due to diarrhea. The boy’s mother and three other children are currently receiving treatment at Jogbudha Hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.

On 13th Baisakh, Dhangadhi – The death of a child due to diarrhea has been reported in Dadeldhura. The deceased, 7-year-old Yuvraj Budhamagar, is from Ward No. 2 of Parshuram Municipality. Keshar Saud, Chief of the Dadeldhura Health Office, cited information received from the municipality’s health branch, confirming that Budhamagar’s death was caused by diarrhea.

According to Saud, the boy developed diarrhea after eating boiled potatoes. While being transported to the hospital for treatment, he passed away along the way. His mother and three other children are undergoing treatment at Jogbudha Hospital. The Health Office has stated that all patients currently receiving care at the hospital are in stable condition.

Ongoing Theater Performances in Kathmandu’s Playhouses

More than half a dozen theaters are currently active in Kathmandu. Mandala Theatre is hosting the plays ‘Atiranjan Ko Manoranjan’ and ‘Grand Rehearsal.’ Kantipur Theatre is staging ‘Seto Dharti,’ a play based on Amar Nyaupane’s book, featuring actress Rekha Thapa as the producer. Shilpi Theatre premiered the play ‘Sickle Cell’ today, on 13 Baishakh, and it will continue to be performed until 28 Baishakh.

At Mandala Theatre, ‘Atiranjan Ko Manoranjan’ is being performed, which is a story directed by Sagar Khati Kami and his team. Described as an experimental play, it incorporates music and acting. The production is designed to inspire the audience to think and raise questions, compelling them to reconsider their thoughts, choices, and decisions. This play will be staged until today, 13 Baishakh.

Also at Mandala Theatre, the play ‘Grand Rehearsal’ has been performed since 11 Baishakh. Written by Henry Louis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, it has been translated into Nepali by Anup Nyaupane and Umesh Tamang. Directed by Buddhi Tamang, the play is said to be a tribute to theater itself.

At Kantipur Theatre, ‘Seto Dharti’ is currently running. This play is based on Amar Nyaupane’s Madan Puraskar-winning book. Rekha Thapa is serving as the producer. Directed by Sundar Dhital, this production marks the debut of actress Benisha Hamal. Shilpi Theatre began hosting ‘Sickle Cell’ starting today, with a premiere show on 13 Baishakh. The play will be staged until 28 Baishakh.

However, no plays are currently being performed at Sarvanam Theatre, Purano Ghar, or Kunj Natak Ghar. These theaters are hosting acting workshops and various other programs instead.

Concerns Expressed Over Congress’s Inability to Speak Up in Shekhar’s Discussions

Dr. Shekhar Koirala, a leader of the Nepali Congress, convened a meeting with leaders from various sectors following the recent elections, marking the first time he sought their views in such a setting. He listened to opinions from Congress leaders, foreign policy experts, legal professionals, journalists, and young members. The discussion revealed concerns that the Congress has been unable to voice its stance on national and international issues, emphasizing the need for moderation to maintain party unity.

On April 26, in Kathmandu, Dr. Shekhar Koirala engaged leaders from different sectors post-election to solicit their perspectives for the first time. Present at the meeting were Congress leaders, foreign policy analysts, political commentators, lawyers, journalists, and youth representatives. Following diverse inputs regarding the nation and the party, Dr. Koirala briefly shared his views.

One participant noted, “Dr. Shekhar spoke little but ultimately expressed a moderate position to preserve party unity, remarking that both factions within the party are extremist.” Attendees voiced serious concern that the Congress is currently incapable of articulating its positions publicly. Historically, even during significant events such as the burning of BP Koirala’s history or leaders’ homes, the party remained silent; now, after the formation of a new government, that silence has deepened according to meeting participants.

They stated, “Congress has failed to speak out on either national or international matters. There is a pressing need to empower the party to express itself more effectively.” The discussions also included an analysis that without achieving party unity, the Congress risks being out of power for the next 15 to 20 years. Speakers also raised concerns about the current government’s governance system.

Political analyst Puranjan Acharya evaluated measures to strengthen Congress alongside assessments of the current government’s performance. He remarked, “This wasn’t about Shekhar or Gagan; the message was unified. It’s not about individuals. There appears to be fear among people regarding democracy and its principles, raising concerns about what might happen.”

Discussions questioned the role of party president Gagan Thapa concerning the unresolved issue of selecting the parliamentary party leader. Leaders also inquired about why the topic of renewing active memberships for the 15th general convention was resurfacing, given that most renewals had already lapsed locally. Participants conveyed, “Some leaders wondered why renewals should be redone. Questions were also raised about the usefulness of retaining members unlikely to increase votes.”

Although legal disputes within Congress were settled following a court order, political disagreements persist, speakers stated.

The discussion took place at Koirala’s contact office in Vishalnagar and included participants such as Dr. Dinesh Bhattarai, Madhurman Acharya, Puranjan Acharya, Dr. Uddhav Pyakurel, Purushottam Dahal, Kishor Nepal, Haridarsan Shrestha, Sher Bahadur KC, Upendrekeshari Nyaupane, Dr. Binita Karki, Jagdish Dahal, Kulchandra Wagle, and Bishnu Budhathoki. Two young leaders, Abhijit Adhikari and Karina Puri, also took part. Other Congress figures involved were Dr. Shashank Koirala, Sujata Koirala, Dhanraj Gurung, Badri Pandey, Jeevan Pariyar, NP Saud, Dr. Minendra Rizal, and Dr. Govindraj Pokharel.

होल्डिङ सेन्टरबाट परीक्षा केन्द्र धाइरहेकी विद्यार्थी

Student Walking from Holding Center to Exam Venue Voices Concerns Over Education Disruption

Summary: After bulldozers began operating in the Sukumbasi settlement, a 17-year-old student complained about the impact on her studies even while she was taking exams. Her family took a loan to pay the 50,000 rupees college admission fee and faces expenses totaling three lakh rupees, causing her worry about continuing her education. Although the government arranged temporary shelter, it has not ensured permanent housing or the right to education. April 26, Kathmandu.

“I don’t know whether I should continue college or not,” said a 17-year-old student from the Sukumbasi settlement in Kathmandu’s Shantinagar-Gairigaun area, who arrived Sunday at the holding center inside Dashrath Rangashala in Tripureshwor. She was born in the Sukumbasi settlement and is currently taking her final exams for the first year of her Bachelor’s in Computer Applications (BCA). Bulldozers demolished homes in the settlement during the exam period.

“It’s the final exam. I came here after finishing the exam. I have written it too. But since yesterday, I have been unable to continue studying,” she explained, describing how the bulldozers affected her home and disrupted her studies. When she arrived at the holding center, she was still carrying her bag and holding hands with her 9-year-old brother. Despite needing to prepare for her exams in those conditions, both her living and study environments were unsettled.

Security personnel provided food to her on Sunday evening at the stadium, but she was not ready to eat. Her father managed to find a room to store their belongings; however, the four-member family could not live there due to space constraints. The lack of shelter compounded their worries about her education. “I have to study, but I don’t know how,” she said tearfully. “My parents have struggled hard to educate me.” Her father works as a painter, while her mother works as a domestic worker and sometimes cleans streets. “How will my parents afford my education now?” she asked.

“The entire college costs 300,000 rupees, so how will we pay?” she added. The family took loans to support her education. “Initially, we had to pay 50,000 rupees for admission, which we collected through a loan,” she said. “Originally, the fee was 30,000 rupees, but the college asked for 50,000, so we borrowed money to pay it.” Ranked second in her internal college exams, she is anxious about her final exam results. “I am unsure where to go or what to do. My parents have no money. How will I continue my studies?”

Other children of school-going age were also in the holding center, some playing and others gathering their belongings as it started to rain. While their homes of many decades were destroyed, parents are increasingly concerned about how to continue their children’s education.

The new academic session is about to start. Enrollment begins April 28, with classes commencing on May 4. With no stable place to live or study, parents remain uncertain where to enroll their children. Temporary housing has been arranged at the Radhaswami Satsang Vyas Ashram in Kirtipur for landless individuals from Thapathali and Shantinagar-Gairigaun areas. However, the government has not provided permanent housing solutions.

A woman living in the temporary shelter expressed concern about her child’s education. She does not know where to enroll her son, who is in grade five. “We do not even have a fixed address. The child needs to be enrolled in school, but we don’t know what will happen in a new place,” she said.

Article 31 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to basic education and mandates free and compulsory education. However, parents in the Sukumbasi settlement fear their children may be deprived of education. The Constitution also grants legal rights to free higher education for disabled and economically disadvantaged citizens, but these constitutional rights remain unfulfilled for the poor families of the settlement.