Illegal Crusher Operations in Nuwakot Spark Public Outcry Over Environmental Damage and Health Risks

Nuwakot. Local residents have been suffering due to illegal crusher industries operating in various parts of the district. Illegal excavation in rivers and streams is intensifying. Due to a lack of laws and weaknesses in regulatory bodies, natural resources are being misused, and revenue collection is also being circumvented.

Widespread protests are ongoing against the illegal crusher industries operating at various points along the Likhu River, which flows westwards through Shivapuri Panchakanya and Likhu Rural Municipality in southeastern Nuwakot, citing adverse effects on the health of local people. These crusher industries, operating under the protection of various political parties in the name of constructing the East-West Mid-Hill Highway, are not only exploiting millions of rupees worth of riverine materials like stones, gravel, and sand but have also placed surrounding settlements at risk of disaster.