Kathmandu declared street homeless-free city

KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City has officially declared its jurisdiction a “street-dependent human-free city,” marking a major step in its ongoing campaign to address homelessness and social protection.

At a program held on Monday, Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol announced the declaration under the slogan “Those without shelter are the responsibility of Kathmandu Metropolitan City.” She emphasized the city’s commitment to building not only a cultural capital but also a humane and inclusive urban identity.

As part of the initiative, the metropolis has signed a tripartite agreement with the Nepal Police, the District Administration Office Kathmandu, and Human Service Ashram to ensure coordinated management of people found living in streets or public spaces.

The agreement was signed by Acting Mayor Dangol, Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki, Chief District Officer Ishwar Raj Poudel, and Human Service Ashram Chair Ramji Adhikari.

Under the framework, an integrated system will be implemented focusing on contact, coordination, and care, aiming to provide shelter, rehabilitation, and support for vulnerable individuals.

A coordination committee will also be formed to oversee regular meetings, implementation plans, and resource management.

Speaking at the event, Dangol said the initiative reflects Kathmandu’s aspiration to be recognized as both a cultural and humanity-centered city.

Former Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha stressed the need for stronger collective responsibility in promoting humanitarian efforts, stating that no negligence should be tolerated in such campaigns.

Kathmandu Metropolitan City has been working in collaboration with Human Service Ashram since 2017, spending an average of around Rs 20 million annually on rescue and rehabilitation programs.

The event also marked the conclusion of the Mechi–Mahakali campaign jointly run by Human Service Ashram and the Ani Choying Drolma Foundation, during which 197 homeless individuals were rescued and rehabilitated, according to Ashram Chair Ramji Adhikari.

Speakers including senior cardiologist Dr. Bhagwan Koirala, veteran artist Madan Krishna Shrestha, cultural expert Dr. Govinda Tandon, and others highlighted the importance of sustained humanitarian commitment and effective implementation of the agreement.