By Narendra Dhakal
Gorkha, Feb. 4: Ward chairpersons from different local levels of Gorkha and Dhading districts which will be submerged by Budhigandaki Hydropower have demanded for rehabilitation of the victims before deciding compensation for structures and trees.

The ward chiefs have also submitted a joint memorandum with 16 demands to the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project Office.
“Once we receive compensation for our houses and sheds, it will become nation’s property. Where will we go after receiving the compensation? This is why rehabilitation should be managed beforehand,” said Dil Bahadur Roka, Ward No. 9 chairman of Arughat Rural Municipality in Gorkha.
The ward chairpersons have also demanded equal rate of compensation.

“There was a dispute earlier while deciding on compensation rate. Lands of same places received different rate. Such discriminations shouldn’t continue. Same rate should be applied in Gorkha and Dhading,” said Ram Prasad Regmi, Ward No. 8 chairman of Gandaki Rural Municipality.
The local chiefs have also called the authorities to provide compensation to those with temporary settlements and preserve public property.
The structures awaiting completion should also receive compensation as per other structures.

“The demands put forth by the Rate Deciding Committee on November 26, 2016, should also be implemented,” the memorandum read.
Meanwhile, officials from Environmental Compensation, Distribution, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Division of Budhigandaki Project have discussed the demands by meeting the ward chairpersons on Wednesday.

“We also plan to discuss with respective district administration and municipality officials regarding the demands. We will move forward as per the discussion’s results,” said Krishna Karki, chief of the division.
The project has already provided a compensation of Rs. 35 billion to the people for their lands. The authorities are now preparing to provide compensation for sheds alongside trees, plants and fruits.