KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has issued an order directing the removal of all structures located within 65 meters of the Phewa Lake shoreline within a strict timeframe of six months.
This ruling has emerged from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by the opposition, which includes the Pokhara Metropolitan City.
The PIL, which has now become a subject of public attention, highlights the ongoing land dispute concerning the Phewa Lake’s criteria and its recognition as government property.
Phewa Lake, has been a focal point of legal disputes and environmental conservation efforts. The recent Supreme Court order is a culmination of a series of decisions dating back to 2075 BS.
The Supreme Court, in its reconsideration, has mandated the removal of all structures within a 65-meter radius from the Phewa Lake shoreline. This includes residential, commercial, and public constructions. The court has set a strict deadline of 6 months for the removal process.
Additionally, the court has emphasized the establishment of a “Rupale Hariyali” (Greenery Area) within the 65-meter zone, in alignment with the lake’s criteria. This decision aims to preserve the natural beauty and environmental integrity of the area.
The legal tussle over land adjacent to Phewa Lake spans from 2018 to 2031. According to the Supreme Court’s reconsideration, this land has been officially registered, taxed, and designated as government property. The court’s decision solidifies the government’s claim to this land.
The ruling specifies that compensation will be provided according to the law for land situated beyond the lake’s boundaries, along with the finalized deal for the lake itself. This resolution underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures and property rights.
The controversy surrounding Phewa Lake’s criteria has seen multiple legal proceedings. Earlier, the Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City reduced the criteria from 65 meters to 30 meters, leading to legal challenges and subsequent reversals.
The Phewa Lake area is not only a subject of land disputes but also a matter of environmental preservation. The court’s decision to maintain a 65-meter conservation area is essential to safeguard the lake’s ecosystem from further encroachment.
The Supreme Court’s order to remove structures within 65 meters of Phewa Lake’s shoreline within 6 months is a significant step towards preserving the natural beauty of this iconic location. The ruling also addresses long-standing land disputes and reinforces the government’s claim to the area.
The decision underscores the importance of balancing development and environmental conservation, particularly in areas of natural significance like Phewa Lake.
