KATHMANDU: Authorities have launched a demolition drive to remove squatter settlements in Gairigaun, Ward 9 of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, as part of an ongoing effort to clear structures built on encroached public land.

A joint team of the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and Kathmandu Metropolitan Police has been deployed to carry out the operation. According to Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, Superintendent of Police and spokesperson for the District Police Range, Kathmandu, both temporary and permanent structures are being dismantled under tight security.

“The removal of encroached structures has begun here,” Bhattarai said. “Following the clearance of settlements in Thapathali earlier today, the campaign has now moved to the Gairigaun area.”

Police said security personnel remain on high alert to prevent disruptions. However, no clashes or resistance have been reported during the operation so far.