Bagmati River Cleanup Campaign — Week 635 Update

Kathmandu, Nepal — As the monsoon rains sweep across the Kathmandu Valley, volunteers of the Bagmati River Cleanup Mega Campaign marked their 635th consecutive week of action, determined to protect the river despite harsh weather challenges.

This week, cleanup activities targeted the heavily urbanized stretch from Tinkune to Baneshwor, an area notorious for rapidly accumulating plastic waste and debris that threatens to flow into the Bagmati River. The campaign team worked to remove unmanaged roadside waste and reduce the risk of drainage blockages and urban flooding during peak rainfall.

Recognizing that cleanup alone isn’t enough, the campaign has also initiated plantation activities along the riverbanks. Organizers believe planting trees and vegetation will help stabilize the soil, filter runoff, and support the Bagmati River’s gradual return to its natural state.

“Monsoon floods often wash large amounts of plastic and waste into the river, worsening downstream pollution,” said a campaign coordinator. “But even during heavy rain, our volunteers remain committed — proving that small, regular actions truly add up.”

Now in its 12th year, the Bagmati River Cleanup Campaign combines weekly waste collection with public awareness and environmental restoration. Every piece of plastic kept out of the river protects the Bagmati ecosystem and the health of thousands who live along its banks.

The campaign team emphasized that consistent community involvement — rain or shine — is the only way to secure a cleaner, greener future for Kathmandu and the generations to come.