Mahottari, Jan 7: The 13th Municipal Assembly of Bardiwas Municipality has been thrown into controversy over the contentious issue of mining in the Ratu River. The municipal council found itself embroiled in debates when executive members raised concerns about revenue, citing potential illegal mining activities in the Ratu River.

Ward President of Bardiwas-6, Padam Alemgar, asserted that excavation should be halted, taking into consideration the sentiments of the people and the potential for environmental disasters. President Magar shared that during his monitoring visit to the excavation site, he witnessed considerable unrest and made multiple attempts to intervene and stop the activity.

Several ward chairpersons, including Kaharman Syangwa from Ward No. 4 (UML), Shamsher Singh from Bardiwas-8, Ramkisor Sah from Bardiwas-13, and Birat Bist from Bardiwas-3, have also voiced their opposition to the mining activities in the Ratu River.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the mining operations and other issues, representatives from UML and CPN-Maoist Center have opted to boycott the Municipal Assembly. The controversy, especially regarding river mining, has gained prominence in the city.

Allegations are being raised that the river excavation took place without a thorough assessment of previous damages, and critics argue that the city chief supported the contractor even when the ongoing excavation violated standards. The district-level monitoring team subsequently deemed the current excavation to be against rules and standards, leading to its suspension.