Students from the Kathmandu University School of Law are implementing the Eco-Justice Initiatives, a project focused on environmental issues, community engagement, and governance along the Roshi River corridor.
According to the organizers, the initiative includes field research, community interaction, environmental assessment, and engagement with local governance bodies to collect data and inform discussions on environmental management and policy.
The project began with a panel discussion titled “Reimagining Tomorrow” at CV Raman Hall, Kathmandu University. The panel included Sagar Dhakal, Tashi Lhazom, Arnab Chaudhary, and Prasuj Mainali, who discussed topics related to environmental justice, governance, and community participation.
As part of field activities, students visited Kalati, Panauti, Banepa, and Bethanchwok. During these visits, they interacted with local residents and conducted environmental assessments, including water quality testing, soil sampling, and air quality monitoring, to document environmental conditions in the area.
The initiative also includes educational sessions at schools, where students discussed environmental awareness, sustainability, and civic engagement with schoolchildren.
In addition, the team has submitted Right to Information (RTI) requests to relevant authorities seeking information on land use, mining permits, and environmental governance. Information obtained through RTI responses is being used for research and discussion with local government bodies.
A Local Governance Dialogue was organized involving representatives from Bethanchwok, Dhulikhel, Banepa, and Panauti municipalities. The dialogue focused on environmental protection, policy implementation, and coordination between local governments, communities, and researchers.
The project also involves the production of a documentary intended to record environmental conditions, community perspectives, and project activities in the Roshi River area.
Organizers said preparations are underway to form a Women’s Climate Champion Group aimed at encouraging women’s participation in environmental and governance-related activities at the local level.
The Eco-Justice Initiatives project is supported by the British Council and the Association of Youth Organizations Nepal (AYON).
