Road Division Expresses Concern Over KMC's Controversial Dust Dumping Incident
The Road Division, Kathmandu, has expressed serious concern over the recent actions of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), which involved dumping truckloads of dust and garbage in front of the main entrance of the Road Division's office at Min Bhavan. This incident, which occurred on Saturday, has been described by the Road Division as a violent and chaotic move.
In a statement released on Saturday evening, the Road Division condemned KMC's actions, stating that the disposal of garbage in such a manner obstructed the entry and exit of office personnel. "The behavior of the largest and responsible local government of the country mocks the rule of law. This kind of behavior, in a violent and chaotic manner, will never enhance the dignity of the metropolis," the statement read.
Pramod Khatiwada, the information officer of the Road Division office, noted that Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah and the head of the Road Division Office, Kathmandu, had previously discussed various issues regarding road improvements in the city. According to Khatiwada, these discussions emphasized the need for cooperative action in accordance with existing rules and regulations.
Khatiwada emphasized that the Road Division is receptive to constructive criticism and suggestions related to its jurisdiction and is committed to implementing necessary changes. However, he warned that the Division would not tolerate anarchic behavior or the raising of issues outside its jurisdiction. "Engaging in anarchic behavior will not be tolerated in the future, and the Road Division will be compelled to counter such actions," he added.
On Saturday, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) dumped a truckload of dust in front of the Department of Roads and the Road Division, Kathmandu. Mayor Balen's actions were in protest against the prolonged delay in completing the second section (Kalanki-Basundhara) of the ring road expansion, which has been ongoing for the past 15 years. He argued that the people of Kathmandu have been suffering from dust due to the delays.
Mayor Balen criticized the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport for its inefficiencies, stating that KMC has faced public backlash due to the Ministry's shortcomings. He warned that KMC would continue to send truckloads of dust to the Ministry daily until the construction work progresses. "It doesn't look good if only the general public has to endure this dust. As long as the construction work does not proceed, the KMC will send you a truckload of dust every day as a gift. Please accept it as love," he posted on social media.
In response to these actions, the Road Division issued a statement raising serious concerns and calling for adherence to the rule of law and cooperative efforts to address the issues at hand.
