Hundreds of families displaced from informal settlements across the capital are now living in temporary shelters and budget hotels, uncertain about what comes next. Following a recent eviction drive, entire communities from Shantinagar, Thapathali, Gairigaun, Gothatar, and Manohara were cleared, leaving many without homes, documents, or basic belongings.
According to official figures, at least 871 families have been affected. Some have been moved to an आश्रम in Kirtipur, while others are scattered across hotels in areas like Balaju and Gongabu. Authorities say more families are still being processed and relocated, but many remain in limbo.
For those displaced, the impact goes beyond losing a roof. Families have been separated in the chaos, children’s schooling has been disrupted, and daily wage earners have been forced to pause work. Many say they had little time to prepare before bulldozers arrived, leaving behind clothes, food, and personal items.
Women, children, the elderly, and those with health conditions are among the most vulnerable. Several families now share cramped rooms, struggling with cold weather, limited resources, and uncertainty about how long they can stay.
A major concern among the displaced is the lack of clear information about permanent resettlement. Many had lived in these settlements for years, building homes with borrowed money and informal assurances of land ownership. Now, they are hoping the government will provide legal land titles or a long-term housing solution.
Officials maintain that temporary arrangements are being expanded, but displaced residents say what they need most is stability. As the city moves forward with urban development, the question of where its most vulnerable residents will go remains unanswered.