Why you should recognise Kawadiwalas and their contribution to Kathmandu’s waste management

Some people shoo them away, many call them names such as ‘kawadiwalas’ and ‘khates’ while others shun them for their appearances. That is the sad reality of the people who have been the ones saving the environment.

Some 20 years back, when housewives of Kathmandu heard a man on cycle calling ‘khaali sisi, purano kagaj’ (empty bottles and old papers), they used to call them to their house and sell old books and newspapers and empty bottles lying around the house for new utensils. Now, with many families choosing to stay in apartments and colonies protected by security guards, such calls have become rare. But, their contribution is still important.