Pokhara Metropolitan City has begun removing illegal structures built on encroached land along the Firke Khola from Sunday, following the expiry of a 35-day notice issued to clear the riverside area.

The notice period for vacating structures built within the “khola ghar” (river buffer zone) ended on Saturday. Acting on a survey report prepared in Asar 2080 BS, the metropolitan office has started demolishing all types of constructions found within the river’s designated area.

According to Mayor Dhanraj Acharya, more than 160 temporary and permanent structures belonging to individuals and institutions will be demolished as part of the ongoing campaign.

The demolition drive was launched simultaneously from three locations on Sunday. The first operation began at Aandheri Kuna, on the border of Wards 2 and 18, and is moving toward Ward 4. The second started near the Firkhe Bridge and Budhanilkantha Temple on the boundary of Wards 4 and 5, extending toward Wards 5 and 8. The third began from the Lions building at Zero Kilometer on the border of Wards 7 and 8, progressing toward Ward 6.

Mayor Acharya said the city has now enforced a six-metre setback standard from the riverbank. He added that areas within this boundary will be cleared to allow for river conservation and beautification efforts, alongside long-term environmental protection of the Firke Khola.