Udayapur Basaha illegal excavation: Committee's strict decision
The city's investigation revealed irregular soil extraction.
Structure and scope of the investigation
On August 29, the municipal executive formed a three-member committee. The coordinator was Ward 9 Chairman Prakash Raut. The membership included Ward 4 Chairman Lungaraj Rai and Engineer Santosh Rai. After five days of work, the report was made public on August 4. The team gave its conclusion by combining statements, records and on-site observations.
Figures, land and quantity
Chaudandigadhi-4 became the main center of the Basaha area. It was found that soil was excavated from about 15 katha 4.5 dhur parts of land plot no. 80, as well as some areas of plot nos. 248, 249, 197. The estimated quantity was 19,890.675 cubic meters. The committee considered the work illegal and recommended immediate stoppage and action.
Law, fees and fines
The report stated that 1 no. It was proposed to pay the tax in accordance with the Provincial Finance Act 2079/2082. The census determined the revenue for illegal soil extraction at Rs 14,05,077.29. It was recommended to recover double the fine of that amount, making a total of Rs 28,10,154.57 from Sitaram Construction Beltar. An additional fine of Rs 1.7 million has been proposed for 17 tippers at the rate of Rs 1 lakh per vehicle.
Role of vehicles and equipment
According to the committee, Susan Baniya of Baniya Builders had rented those tippers to Sitaram Construction. The 17 tippers that were seized are currently kept at the Armed Police Force Base Camp in Ward 6, Satdhare. The search for the excavator used in the excavation is ongoing, and if found, penalties and fines will be imposed as per the law.
Future steps for good governance
The committee recommended strict regular monitoring of the excavation and extraction of riverine materials. Prevention of revenue leakage was considered a priority. Revenue Branch Chief Prakash Van has been found to have failed in his duties and has been recommended for immediate suspension. According to Ward Chairman Rai, the investigation is likely to be expanded and further action will be taken if necessary. This step is expected to send a concrete message on the protection of local resources and transparency.
