Sidewalks neat after encroachment removal

KATHMANDU: A major urban improvement drive by the Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City has dramatically transformed the face of Surkhet Road, once heavily encroached and chaotic, into a clean, organized, and pedestrian-friendly corridor.

The municipality has launched an aggressive campaign to remove illegal structures built on footpaths along Surkhet Road, particularly from Ganeshman Chowk through BP Chowk to Dhambhoji Chowk.

The cleared spaces have now been redesigned into wide, structured sidewalks, restoring mobility and order in one of the city’s busiest commercial zones.

According to Mayor Prashant Bista, the upgraded sidewalks have been expanded to around seven feet in width and designed with long-term urban aesthetics and accessibility in mind.

“We have made the footpaths wider and inclusive for all pedestrians, including persons with disabilities,” Mayor Bista said. “We are also integrating greenery through tree plantation to enhance the urban environment.”

The redevelopment work, which has already been completed in key sections up to Dhambhoji Chowk, includes drainage alignment, structured paving, and removal of long-standing encroachments that had narrowed pedestrian movement for years. Authorities confirmed that machinery, including excavators, was used to dismantle stubborn illegal constructions that had occupied public space for decades.

Officials say the project will not stop at Dhambhoji Chowk. Plans are underway to extend the same standardized footpath system further up to Pushpalal Chowk, with continued emphasis on pedestrian safety, accessibility, and urban greenery.

The transformation has been widely welcomed by local residents and business leaders. Krishna Prasad Shrestha, former president of the Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce, said the change has significantly improved the city’s appearance and safety.

“Earlier, walking along Surkhet Road was risky due to encroachments and traffic confusion,” Shrestha said. “Now the area looks organized and modern. This should be expanded further on both sides of the road.”

Local civic voices have also urged the municipality to ensure that the newly reclaimed sidewalks remain free from future encroachments and that ongoing maintenance and tree plantation efforts are sustained.

Once dominated by street vendors, goods displays, and illegal structures forcing pedestrians onto the main road, Surkhet Road is now witnessing a visible shift toward a more structured urban environment.