Ward office in Attariya reopens after 10-day lockout over DDC relocation

Attariya: The lock imposed on the ward office of Godavari Municipality–1 in Kailali was removed on Thursday after remaining in place for 10 days. Local residents and the Sangharsh Committee had locked the office in protest against the relocation of the DDC Dairy Development Corporation.

Ward Chairman Gopal Dutt Bhatta said that although opposition to the relocation of the DDC remains, the lock was opened as it was affecting the regular functioning of the ward office and inconveniencing service recipients. He stated that the ward and the municipality are prepared to provide land management and financial support to ensure the continued operation of the DDC in the area.

According to Bhatta, the mayor has also committed to allocating a budget of Rs 2.5 million to Rs 5 million for the operation of the DDC in the coming year. He apologized for the inconvenience caused to service seekers due to the lockout and urged the Sangharsh Committee not to misinterpret the decision to remove the lock.

Ward member Gambhir Saund said the lock had to be opened as essential work of local residents had come to a halt because of the closure. He added that the continued operation of the DDC would have a positive impact on employment generation and local development.

Following the initiation of the process to shift the DDC to Dhangadhi, locals had locked the DDC office, factory and the ward office in Attariya. The lockout of the ward office, which began on Poush 14, was lifted after 10 days.